How To Upgrade a Mantel, Hearth, and Surround

Transforming an outdated fireplace can dramatically enhance your living room. By upgrading the mantel, hearth, and surround, you can breathe new life into a dated fixture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of revamping your fireplace, from removing old brickwork to installing a sleek new mantel. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to beautify an old brick fireplace.

Preparing the Fireplace for an Upgrade

Before diving into the installation of new elements, choose your materials and prepare the existing fireplace structure. This sets the foundation for a successful upgrade, ensuring that all new components fit seamlessly and securely.

Select the Right Materials

Choose high-quality materials for your mantel, hearth, and surround. Granite is a popular choice for its durability and timeless look, but there are other options, such as marble or slate. Each material has its own unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal. Consider factors such as color, texture, and overall style when making your selection.

Remove Existing Brickwork

The first step is to remove any protruding brickwork that may interfere with the new fireplace design. Silva focuses on the corbeling—the stepped-out bricks at the top of the fireplace.

To remove the corbeling, follow these steps:

1. Use a masonry hammer and cold chisel to carefully chip away at the mortar joints.
2. Work methodically from top to bottom, removing one row of bricks at a time.
3. Be careful not to damage the surrounding brickwork that will remain in place.

Prepare the Hearth Area

Once the corbeling is removed, turn your attention to the hearth area. The old hearth and its mortar bed need to be removed to make way for the new granite hearth. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Use a hammer and cold chisel to break up the old hearth material.
2. Remove all debris and ensure the area is clean and level.
3. Inspect the underlying surface for any damage and repair if necessary.

Installing the New Hearth

A new hearth can significantly enhance the appearance of your fireplace. The process involves creating a stable base and carefully setting the granite in place, making sure that it is level and well-supported.

Create the Mortar Bed

Before installing the granite hearth, prepare a new mortar bed to provide a strong and level base for the granite to sit on:

1. Mix mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions, aiming for a stiff consistency.
2. Apply the mortar to the prepared hearth area, ensuring it’s level and smooth.
3. Allow the mortar bed to cure for at least two days before proceeding.

Set the Granite Hearth

Once the mortar bed has cured, it’s time to install the granite hearth:

1. Apply masonry adhesive to the cured mortar bed using a notched trowel.
2. Carefully place the granite hearth onto the adhesive, ensuring it’s level and properly aligned.
3. Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Upgrading the Fireplace Surround

The surround is a key visual element of your fireplace. Upgrading it can add elegance and a modern touch.

Install Granite Surround Pieces

To complement the new hearth, install granite pieces around the fireplace opening:

1. Cut granite pieces to fit the sides and top of the fireplace opening.
2. Apply masonry adhesive to the back of each piece.
3. Carefully position and press each piece into place, ensuring they’re level and properly aligned.

Paint the Firebox

While not shown in the video, painting the inside of the firebox can provide a clean, fresh look:

1. Clean the firebox thoroughly, removing all soot and debris.
2. Use high-temperature paint designed specifically for fireplaces.
3. Apply the paint in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Assembling and Installing the Mantel To a Fireplace

The mantel is often the centerpiece of a fireplace upgrade. Silva demonstrates a straightforward method for assembling and installing a pre-fabricated mantel, which can be an attractive and practical addition to your fireplace.

Assemble the Mantel

Many mantels come as knock-down kits that require assembly. These pre-fabricated kits simplify the process and ensure that all components fit together perfectly. Here’s how to assemble them:

1. Lay out all the mantel pieces according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Use the provided hardware to connect the top piece to the side pilasters.
3. Tighten all connections securely, ensuring the mantel is square and level.

Prepare for Installation

Before attaching the mantel to the wall, ensure the mantel is correctly positioned and add secure attachments:

1. Position the assembled mantel against the wall and mark its outline.
2. Remove the mantel and measure 3/4-inch inside the outline to account for the thickness of the mantel.
3. Install 2×2 cleats along these inner lines, securing them to wall studs with 3-inch screws.

Attach the Mantel

With the cleats in place, the mantel can be securely attached:

1. Carefully position the mantel over the cleats.
2. Use a pneumatic nailer to fasten the mantel to the cleats through the top and sides.
3. Ensure the mantel is level and flush against the wall.

Finishing Touches for Your Mantel, Hearth, and Surround

The final steps in upgrading your fireplace involve adding decorative elements and ensuring everything is sealed and finished. These touches enhance the overall aesthetic and ensure the longevity of your project.

Install Decorative Molding

Adding decorative molding is a great option to give your mantel a polished look:

1. Measure and cut beaded molding to fit around the inside perimeter of the mantel surround.
2. Apply wood glue to the back of the molding.
3. Nail the molding in place using finish nails.

Seal and Caulk

Seal all seams to prevent drafts and give your fireplace a clean, professional look:

1. Apply a bead of caulk along any seams between the mantel and the wall.
2. Use a matching caulk to fill any gaps between the granite pieces.
3. Wipe away excess caulk with a damp cloth for a clean finish.

Additional Fireplace Considerations

When upgrading your fireplace, a few additional elements can add both functionality and beauty to your project.

Incorporate Built-In Storage

Incorporating built-in storage solutions around your fireplace can add both practicality and style to your living space. These additions can enhance the functionality of your fireplace area and create a more organized and attractive space:

• Add cabinets below the mantel for discreet storage of firewood or other essentials.
• Create a recessed niche above the fireplace for a television or art display.
• Install custom shelves on either side of the fireplace for books, decorative items, or media equipment.

Enhance With Lighting

Lighting can accentuate the beauty of your upgraded fireplace and create a warm, inviting ambiance. Consider installing these lighting options:

• A decorative chandelier or pendant light above the hearth area for a touch of elegance
• Recessed lighting in the ceiling above the fireplace to highlight the mantel and surround
• Sconces on either side of the fireplace for soft, ambient lighting

Tools