How to Apply Thin Faux Stone to a Fireplace Surround

A thin faux stone or stone veneer fireplace surround is an affordable option to achieve the look of a natural stone fireplace. The stone veneer is applied over the wooden fireplace surround similarly to other fireplace finishes such as tile. There are many different styles of stone veneer, ranging from field stone to cobblestone to something resembling blue stone or slate. Base your selection of veneer on the overall design of the room. A cobblestone style veneer would create a rustic appearance, while a blue stone or slate veneer would complement a contemporary or modern room.

Roll of builder's felt
Utility knife
Staple gun, 3/8-inch staples
Metal lath
Metal snips
Box of nails
Hammer
Mortar
Notched trowel
Faux stone veneer
Canvas
Angle grinder
Brick hammer
Spray bottle
Masonry trowel
Grout bag
Whisk broom

Instructions

- 1
  Apply builder's felt to the bare wooden fireplace surround. Start at the base of the surround and overlap each section of felt by approximately 2 inches. Trim the felt with a utility knife. Fasten the felt to the surround with a staple gun equipped with 3/8-inch staples. Space the staples every 6 to 8 inches. The felt acts as a vapor barrier.
- 2
  Position the metal lath over the felt on the fireplace surround. The metal cups on the lath should be facing up so that they hold the mortar. Cut the lath to size with metal snips.
- 3
  Hammer nails into the lath every 6 to 8 inches along the edges and in a grid throughout the surface of the surround to fasten it in place.
- 4
  Drag a thin coat of mortar horizontally across the surround with a notched trowel. This is called the skim coat. Allow it to dry overnight.
- 5
  Lay out the stone veneer onto a canvas drop cloth in the desired pattern for the fireplace surround.
- 6
  Trim any stones as needed to fit the design. Score the stone with an angle grinder. Strike the scored line with a brick hammer to create a natural stone edge.
- 7
  Install the stone veneer onto the surround. Wet the back of the veneer with a spray bottle. Apply a layer of mortar to the back with a trowel. Make a furrow in the center of the mortar horizontally with the tip of the trowel. Firmly seat each stone onto the surround.
- 8
  Lay the first row along the top and sides. Fill in the rest of the stone veneer working your way up from the bottom in rows. Space the stone approximately 3/8 to 1/2 inch apart. Allow the mortar to dry overnight.
- 9
  Fill the joints between the stone with mortar using a grout bag. Allow the mortar to dry for approximately one hour.
- 10
  Run a finger across the grouted joints to smooth out the mortar. Brush the joints with a whisk broom to make the joint appear more natural. Allow the mortar to cure for at least two days prior to using the fireplace.

Brands of Woodburning Inserts

Gas Fireplace Vs. Pellet Insert

Fireplaces