How to Install Panel Trim Against a Fireplace

Locate the trim pieces for each side of the fireplace — left, right, top and bottom. Dry-fit them around the firebox to see if each fits. If a trim panel is too large, it must be cut.

Measure the distance between the inside leg of the mantel and edge of the firebox on the left and right sides to get the width required for each trim piece. Then measure from the bottom of the fireplace to the underside of the mantel header to get the height required for each side piece.

Measure from the top of the firebox to the bottom of the mantel header to get the height required for the top trim panel. Measure from the bottom of the firebox to the hearth to find the height of the bottom piece, if applicable. Measure from the left to the right side of the firebox to get the horizontal length for the top and bottom trim panel.

Turn each trim piece over. Use a ruler to measure and pencil to draw an outline of the required length and width on the back of each piece.

Fill the wet tile saw tray with water so the pump in the tray is sufficiently covered with water. Also make sure the plug in the tray is closed so water doesn't escape.

Put on safety goggles and work gloves.

Place the trim panel upside down underneath the blade. Make sure the drawn outline on each panel lines up with the blade. Hit the power switch on the wet tile saw and slowly push the trim panel underneath the blade.

Smooth the cut edges of the trim panels with a pumice stone or medium-grit sandpaper.

Secure each trim panel in place using the included polyurethane adhesive or magnets. Bead adhesive on the backside of the trim panel then press it firmly in place. Polyurethane adhesive secures the trim panel to wood, brick or stone fireplaces only. To secure the panel to a metal fireplace, remove the paper backing from the magnet and stick the adhesive side of the magnet to the fireplace. Then press the backside of the trim panel to the magnets. Keep magnets 8 inches from the top and bottom edges of the trim panel, or in the case of the top trim panel, 8 inches from the left and right edges.

Mix the grout according to manufacturer instructions and insert the tip of the triangular trowel into the grout. Use the trowel to push and smooth the grout into the seams between and around the trim panels. To caulk, hold the tip of the applicator or caulk gun on the seam and squeeze the applicator or trigger to force the caulk out. Then use your finger to smooth it into the seam.

Wipe away any excess grout with a damp cloth after it has set for 15 to 20 minutes. Or wipe away excess caulk immediately with a damp cloth.