How to Hold the Fireplace Surround Up While the Glue Dries

Tile or Stone Surrounds

• 1

  Measure the size of the tiles or stones with a tape measure. Note the measurement.

• 2

  Draw a horizontal, straight line along the bottom of the area where the surround will hang that is equal to the height of the stones or tiles then add 1/4-inch to this measurement. Draw a straight line equal to the tile or stone height plus 1/4-inch above the first line. Continue to draw straight lines equal to the tile or stone height plus 1/4-inch over the entire area around the fireplace until you reach the top of the surround.

• 3

  Sketch a vertical line equal to the width of the tile or stone plus 1/4-inch over the entire area where the surround will sit. You should have a grid pattern that matches the size of the tile or stones around the fireplace opening.

• 4

  Mark a small X on the center point of each tile or stone along the horizontal lines.

• 5

  Drive 1 1/2-inch screws into each X mark 3/4-inch into the wall with a power screwdriver or drill with a screwdriver bit.

• 6

  Spread construction adhesive with a trowel and set each tile or stone to rest on the screw. As you set the tile or stone, the screws act as a support for each tile or stone piece.

Precast Fireplace Surrounds

• 7

  Measure the height and width of the fireplace opening with a tape measure. Write down these measurements.

• 8

  Use a circular or hand saw to cut one 1-by-2 for every 12 inches of horizontal opening that is 1/2- to 3/4-inch longer than the height measure.

• 9

  Wedge a 1-by-2 every 12 inches along the horizontal edge of the fireplace opening, angled from the floor or raised hearth up to the surround. Make adjustments, as needed, to keep the section straight and level.

• 10

  Cut one 2-by-4 for each side of the surround that is 2 inches longer than the height of the surround with the circular or hand saw.

• 11

  Prop one 2-by-4 on each side of the fireplace opening at an angle from the floor or raised hearth upward and tightly wedged against the surround.