How to Build a Stone-Veneer Fireplace Surround

This is the first of two steps for cutting the stones to size. Measure the depth of the fireplace opening on the top and sides, making sure to leave enough clearance all around to remove the doors or screen if necessary once the stones are in place. Mark the measurements on the corresponding corner pieces, starting at the inner corner of each stone's back side. Using a grinder, score the back sides to a depth of about half their thickness. Then measure the depth of the fireplace's sidewalls, and mark and score the remaining corner pieces in the same manner.