How to Add Stone on Top of a Ceramic Fireplace

If you are unsatisfied with your current fireplace surround, fixing the situation may seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, you can create an entirely new fireplace surround using stone veneer without having to take down or take apart the current ceramic surround. The process is much more cost-effective and less time-consuming than other methods. Before proceeding, be sure to clear out any nearby furniture and lay out tarps to avoid damaging the surrounding floor.

Builder’s felt
Staple gun
Metal lath
Hammer
Nails
Veneer mortar
Trowels
Plastic spray bottle
Stone veneer
Grout bag
Brush

Instructions

- 1
  Cover the ceramic fireplace with builder’s felt, stapling it in place with a staple gun. Overlap the felt at least 2 inches.
- 2
  Fasten a metal lath over the felt using a hammer and nails.
- 3
  Cover the lath with veneer mortar. Work your way down from the top, applying the mortar in a layer at least 1/2 inch thick.
- 4
  Score the mortar horizontally with a notched trowel. Wait 12 hours -- or overnight -- for the mortar to dry.
- 5
  Dampen the back of each stone veneer using a spray bottle filled with water. Lather the back with mortar, again with a 1/2-inch thickness. Create a furrow in the applied mortar.
- 6
  Place the stone into place, pressing firmly and wiggling the stone a bit to so that it sticks securely in place.
- 7
  Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the entire fireplace surround is covered in stone. Work the perimeter first before filling in the field. Clean the joints between the stones and allow them to dry overnight after all have been placed.
- 8
  Insert mortar in the joints between the stones using a grout bag. Clear away the excess and allow the mortar to dry overnight once more.

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