How To Brick Veneer a Fireplace?

Transforming an outdated fireplace with brick veneer can breathe new life into your living space. This project is an affordable way to achieve the timeless look of brick without the need for extensive masonry work. In the video above, This Old House mason Mark McCullough walks through the process of applying thin brick veneer to a fireplace, demonstrating techniques that can help homeowners achieve professional-looking results.

*Cost data sourced via Angi.

What Is Brick Veneer?

Brick veneer is a popular choice for fireplace makeovers due to its authentic appearance and relatively simple installation process. Brick veneer consists of thin slices of brick, typically about 1/2 inch thick, that are applied to a surface to create the appearance of full brick. Available in a wide range of colors and styles, brick veneer looks like authentic brick but is more cost-effective than full brick installation. Unlike full bricks, thin brick veneers are lightweight and can be applied to existing surfaces without the need for additional structural support.

Types of Brick Veneer

When choosing brick veneer for your project, consider the different types available. You can opt for traditional clay bricks, which have a timeless appearance, or concrete bricks, which may be more durable and come in different finishes. There’s also reclaimed brick veneer, which provides a rustic look perfect for adding character to your fireplace.

Color and Texture

Choosing the right color and texture will help you achieve your desired look. When selecting brick veneer, consider your room’s color scheme and overall design. Brick veneer comes in several colors, ranging from red to whitewash. Textured surfaces can add depth and dimension to your fireplace.

Preparing for Brick Veneer Installation

Before installing your brick veneer, remove any existing veneer, assess the surface you’re working with, and gather the tools and materials you’ll need.

Removing Existing Veneer

If your fireplace already has a veneer or facing that needs to be removed, follow these steps:

1. Put on safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
2. Use a chisel and hammer to create an opening in the existing veneer.
3. Once you have an opening, use a larger chisel to pry off the veneer from behind.
4. Continue removing the veneer until the entire surface is cleared.

Assessing the Surface

After removing the old veneer, inspect the underlying surface. In the video, McCullough notes that some thinset mortar may remain on the brick. While it’s not necessary to remove all of this residue, the surface should be relatively flat and free from loose debris. If large amounts of mortar remain, scrape it off with a chisel to create a smoother surface for the new veneer.

Gathering Materials and Tools

To complete this project, you’ll need the following materials and tools:

• Brick ruler or tape measure
• Chisel and hammer (for removal of old veneer)
• Level
• Masonry brush
• Safety glasses
• Thin brick veneer (including corner pieces)
• Thinset mortar
• Trowel
• Tuck pointer
• Type N mortar

Installing Brick Veneer

With preparation complete, you can start installing the brick veneer on your fireplace.

Layout and Planning

Plan your layout to achieve professional-looking results. McCullough uses a brick ruler to determine the correct spacing between bricks. If you don’t have a brick ruler, you can use a tape measure and mark the layout with painter’s tape. A precise layout will help you maintain consistent lines and avoid uneven gaps between bricks.

Applying Thin Bricks

To install the thin bricks, follow the steps below:

1. Mix the thinset mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Apply the thinset to the back of each brick using a trowel.
3. Press the brick firmly into place, wiggling it slightly for good adhesion.
4. Use a level to check that each brick is properly aligned.
5. Continue applying bricks, following your layout plan.

Working With Corner Pieces

For a polished look, use corner pieces around the fireplace opening. These special pieces give the illusion of full bricks wrapping around the corners for a more authentic appearance. Corner pieces also reinforce the structure, providing additional stability to the veneer installation.

Securing the Veneer

Once all the bricks are in place, make sure they’re properly secured. Check for any loose bricks and press them firmly into the mortar. Allow the thinset to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to the next steps.

Filling the Joints

Once all the bricks are in place, take these steps to fill the joints:

1. Mix Type N mortar according to the package instructions.
2. Use a tuck pointer to fill the joints between the bricks.
3. Work in small sections, ensuring each joint is fully filled.
4. Use the edge of the tuck pointer to create a smooth, consistent finish in each joint.

Cleaning and Brushing

After filling the joints, allow the mortar to set slightly. Use a masonry brush to remove any excess mortar from the brick faces. Brush diagonally across the bricks to avoid disturbing the mortar in the joints.

Sealing the Surface

To make your brick veneer fireplace more durable, consider applying a brick sealant. This will protect the surface from stains and make cleaning easier. Choose a sealant suitable for indoor use and follow the manufacturer’s application instructions for best results.

Maintaining Your Brick Veneer Fireplace

To keep your newly veneered fireplace looking its best, dust it regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. Clean occasionally with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed, but avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Consider hiring a professional masonry cleaner for a thorough cleaning. They can remove deep-seated dirt, soot, and stains, restoring the veneer to its original appearance. Professional cleaning is a good choice for older brick veneers that may have accumulated significant grime over time.

Inspect your fireplace annually for any loose bricks or damaged mortar joints. If you notice any loose bricks or cracks in the mortar joints, address these issues promptly. Use fresh mortar to reseal any gaps and prevent further deterioration. 

Resources:

McCullough installed thin brick as a veneer over the old fireplace. He ordered both flat and corner thin bricks to make sure the fireplace opening looked fully covered. He secured the veneer to the wall using Quikrete Type N mortar.

To template the brick placement, McCullough used a brick ruler, which can be found at masonry supply stores.

The materials McCullough used to install the thin brick, including tuck pointers, trowels, and painter’s tape can all be found at The Home Depot.

Expert assistance with this segment was provided by the Spaulding Brick Company.

Shopping List

• Thin brick
• Painters tape
• Thinset
• Type N mortar

Tools