How to Build a Tile Surrounding for a Wood Stove

Prep Work

• 1

  Measure the space between the edge of the fireplace and the stove trim piece. Cut cement board to fit the space. Use a circular saw to cut the boards after you mark the cuts. You must cover the fireplace surround if it is made of wood. The cement board holds the tile mortar much better than wood, ensuring the tiles with adhere.

• 2

  Drill 3-inch screws through the cement board and into the surround to attach it. Once front of the fireplace is covered, measure the side and top edges. Cut more cement board to fit this space and attach it in the same manner.

• 3

  Cover the fireplace surround with a thin layer of thinset mortar if the surround is brick or stone. You need to cover it with only enough to make the surface smooth. Add a new layer of mortar for the tile after the smooth surface hardens. Let the mortar dry for a day.

Setting the Tile

• 4

  Set a 1-inch wood board 1/4 inch above the top of the wood stove trim piece. You don't want the tile to set on the stove trim because you might need to remove the stove for service. If the tile is sitting in the stove trim, it might be damaged if you remove the stove. Place a level on the board to adjust it and the attach the board to the surround with screws.

• 5

  Find the center of the surround above the board and mark it with a perpendicular line.

• 6

  Spread enough thinset above the board with a notched trowel. Smooth it out just to the side of the line. Place the tiles on the mortar to one side of the center and use spacers to separate them. Repeat with the other side of the line. Finish the row just above the board.

• 7

  Cut tiles on the end of the row, if needed, to fit flush with the edge. Measure the space and mark the tiles. Cut with a circular saw along the marks.

• 8

  Start the second row in the center. You can place the tiles just above the first row or stagger the grout lines. If you want to stagger the gaps, place the first tile of the second row so that it is centered over the center line. This should place it centered above the seam of the tiles below it. Spread grout and finish the row. Repeat additional rows in the same manner as the first two. If you have multiple colors or a pattern in mind, plan it first and place the tiles where you want them. Let the tile dry for a day.

• 9

  Remove the board from the top of the fireplace surround. Start at the bottom of the sides and spread thinset. Place tiles up the sides, and use spacers to keep them apart. Cut tiles if needed in the same manner as the others. Let the tile dry for a day.

• 10

  Press grout into the gaps of the tiles with a rubber grout float. Wipe the top of the tiles with a damp rag as soon as you spread the grout into the gaps. Do not let the material harden on the surface. Let the grout and the tiles dry for two more days.