How to Install a Stone Hearth and Fireplace Surround

Learn how to give your fireplace a whole new look with a stone hearth and fireplace surround.

Excerpted from Do It Yourself Home Improvement

Installing a Stone Surround

Because of the weight of a stone surround, it needs to be broken down into more sections than a wooden surround, which in turn means that assembly involves joining these sections together. Hearths are likely to come in a number of pieces, as are the mantel and back panel. In the example above, a typical stone fireplace surround is shown but the order of work may need modification according to the particular design you have chosen. Some manufacturers sell standard sizes and styles of stone surrounds, but more often they are custom-built. The components are very heavy, so you will need help with installation.