How to Redesign Fireplaces Using Ceramic Tiles

Measure the fireplace facade area where the ceramic tiles will be placed. Determine the size of tiles you want to use to estimate how many you need. If you have a small area to tile, smaller tiles will fit better than larger 12-inch-by-12-inch tiles; smaller tiles will mean less cutting and a proportional look.

Lay out the tiles you choose for the project to determine where each piece will go. Consider using narrow trim tiles around the fireplace opening and around the outer edge of the tiled area. Decide between using all the same tiles or using different patterns or designs for some of the tiles.

Spread thinset that has a latex additive over the brick surface of the fireplace. Use a trowel to get the layer thin, while also filling in the grout lines so the entire fireplace surface is smooth and flat.

Measure the opening of the firebox to find the exact center. Draw a vertical line from that point up to the top of the tiled area.

Cut a 1-inch-by-3-inch board to the same width as the fireplace surround. Attach the board so it is level just below the top of the firebox opening. Drill holes and use 2-inch masonry screws to hold this temporary ledge in place as a guide for installing the tiles.

Spread fresh thinset in a small area above the temporary ledge, first applying it with the flat edge of the trowel and then creating horizontal ridges with the notched edge. Place the first tile with equal parts of the tile on either side of the center line you drew.

Apply additional tiles in the row, adding more thinset as needed. Use a level to ensure the row stays straight and all tiles remain flush. Work up using the same method to tile the entire area above the temporary ledge.

Unscrew the board that you attached as the temporary ledge. Continue tiling the part of the fireplace surround below the ledge you removed. Leave the tiles overnight so the thinset is able to harden.

Remove any thinset that squeezed out on the tile, using a putty knife to remove it. Spread grout over all of the joints with the grout float at an angle. Slide the grout float across the tiles diagonally to remove the excess grout.

Let the grout set for 30 to 60 minutes. Wipe the tiles gently with a damp sponge. After the grout sets overnight, go back over the tiles with a cloth to remove any remaining grout or haze.