How to Build a Cultured Stone Fireplace in a Wall

You can build an attractive stone fireplace with cultured stone that is half the weight and the cost of real stone. Cultured stone is essentially a manufactured material that looks like real stone. Cultured stone is available at building supply stores, and can be installed in just one weekend. As always, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for installation and care.

Pail
Water
Grout bag
Felt paper
Staple gun
Staples
Metal lath
Trowel
Mortar
Rag

Instructions

- 1
  Place the manufactured cultural stone on the floor so you can design a pattern for your fireplace surround.
- 2
  Affix felt paper with a staple gun on the wall surrounding the fireplace.
- 3
  Mix the mortar with water in a bucket according to the directions on the bag of mortar.
- 4
  Staple the metal lath to the felt paper with the staple gun, inserting staples every 6 inches.
- 5
  Spread the mortar over the lath with the trowel, as well as the back of each stone. Put the stone on the lath and apply pressure to affix it to the lath.
- 6
  Put mortar into a grout bag and squeeze it in between the cultured stones. Wipe away excess mortar with a damp rag.

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