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How to Hang Stone Tile Over Brick

Brick walls and fireplace surrounds are two architectural features in many older style homes. While still structurally sound in many cases, leaving the bricks exposed can often date a room or home, particularly if the look doesn't match the furnishings. Tiling over the brick can update the entire room to help it match the surroundings. Stone tile, which is available in numerous finishes, sizes and types, can help transform the brick wall into any number of other styles.

Things You'll Need

  • Thinset mortar
  • Trowel
  • Measuring tape
  • Tile wet saw
  • Flat board
  • Rubber mallet
  • Stone sealer
  • Foam paintbrush
  • Soft cloth
  • Grout
  • Grout float
  • Grout sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spread a thin layer of thinset mortar over the bricks. Use the flat edge of the trowel to create a smooth, even surface over the bricks. Fill in the joints between the bricks and any dips, humps or imperfections on the surface of the bricks. The end result should be a smooth surface on which to install the stone. Let the mortar dry for 24 hours.

    • 2

      Measure the wall and mark off an identically sized area nearby on the floor. Lay out the stone tiles inside this area to determine the best layout and where to place the cuts. Stone tiles often vary in color and pattern; use this time to create a pleasing color pattern by arranging the tiles.

    • 3

      Cut the stone tiles to fit the edges of the installation with a wet tile saw. Double check their fit in the floor layout before their installation.

    • 4

      Spread a second layer of thinset mortar onto the wall. Key this layer of mortar by creating grooves in it with the teeth of the trowel to ensure an even depth across the surface.

    • 5

      Press the stone tiles into the mortar in the same layout you determined on the floor. Place a flat board over the tiles and beat it with a rubber mallet to drive the tiles into the mortar and create an even surface.

    • 6

      Allow the mortar to dry for 24 hours, then seal the stone using a stone sealer. Paint the sealer on with a foam paintbrush, then wipe it away after 10 minutes.

    • 7

      Grout the tiles by spreading the grout over the surface and between the joints with a grout float. Hold the float at a 45-degree angle to the tiles to spread, and a 90-degree angle to the tiles to scrape away the excess. After 10 minutes, wipe the tiles clean with a damp grout sponge. Allow them to dry for 24 hours.