DIY Network

Granite Hearth Installation From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-203

With the new windows in place and a soft buttery yellow on the walls, host Amy Devers and homeowner Elle are ready to tackle Elle's first do-it-yourself project: a new granite hearth. Amy and Elle get started prying the existing vinyl tiles away from the concrete base, then the two create a cardboard template for the granite (which will be cut by a pro).

Materials:

Utility knife
Cardboard
Marker and pencil
Granite (cut to fit)
Thin-set mortar
Silicon caulk

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

1. Begin by removing old flooring surface. If working with vinyl tiles, avoid breaking the tiles into small pieces as you pry them loose. Larger pieces provide greater leverage as you pry.

2. Once old flooring has been removed, create an exact template for your hearth. Use cardboard, a pencil or marker and utility knife to cut the template. (If you've never created one, you might have your local granite supplier to cut one for you.) After the cardboard template has been created, check the fit against the hearth (figure A).

3. Select granite color and order from supplier. Have professional cut to match the template (figure B).

4. Dry-fit the cut granite. Ask the supplier to make any necessary adjustments.

5. Mix thin-set mortar with water to create the consistency of frosting. Apply mortar (figure C) to area where granite will be positioned. Cover area thoroughly.

6. Position granite over the mortar. Clean excess mortar with a margin trowel (figure D), taking care not to scoop mortar from underneath the granite. Stay even with the edge as you work, then use damp sponge to clean away residue.

7. Finally, apply silicon caulk to seal between granite and wall (figure E).