How do I Fireproof a Faux Fireplace?

Measure your fireplace, including the width, height, area surrounding the opening and the distance from the floor and ceiling. Make a note of these measurements. This data will be your guide for fireproofing the fireplace. Generally, the fireplace will extend into your room, away from the walls beside it. This will give you a distinctive area to measure as the fireplace surround will cover this area.

Buy the type of finish you desire for your faux fireplace from your local hardware or specialty store. There are a few finishes that are fireproof and make your fireplace look authentic. Choose a heat-tolerant substance of stone, brick, marble, slate or tile.

Lay out a flat area to prepare the mortar. Use one part cement, one part lime, six parts sand. Make only a small amount of mortar, as it will dry out within two hours. Pile half of the sand on your workspace. Add the cement and the lime. Pile the remaining sand on top. Mix the elements together with your trowel. Make a hole in the center of the mixture. Add some water. Mix and continue to add water until it has a buttery consistency.

Spread the mortar thoroughly and carefully using the trowel on the area to be fireproofed. The mortar must be spread onto the wall area in a 1/2-inch thick layer. According to CalFinder, a website specializing in home refinishing and remodeling, this area is called the surround or facing. The surround has four parts: the header at the top of the fireplace, the riser at the bottom, the legs on the sides and the hearth on the floor in front of the fireplace. Cover the surround in mortar before putting your chosen finish in place. Allow the mortar to set for a few hours or overnight if the area is large.

Wet the mortar wall lightly with water. Hold a piece of your chosen finish in one hand. Use the trowel to load the backside with mortar. Place this piece against the wall covered in the mortar, holding each piece in place and aligned for a few seconds. Remove your hand slowly. Gently wiggle the piece to make sure it doesn't move easily. It will set when the mortar dries completely.

Clean any excess mortar away from between the joints with an slightly damp cloth. Press the cloth into the joints with light pressure. Allow time for it to dry.