Tile all the brick.
How to lay ceramic tile on a brick fireplace.
Butter the back of the tile with thinset using the edge of the trowel.
The thinset will cover the bricks and mortar and provide a flat smooth surface for tile installation.
Use a wire brush to remove any loose mortar or brick pieces from the brick surface.
Push the tile into place and wiggle it until it holds against the wall evenly spaced between the hearth and the tile above.
Install outlet inside fireplace to accommodate new electric insert.
Soak a rag in white vinegar and scrub any soot from the face of the fireplace.
The process phase 1.
Create a box for the electric fireplace to rest on and be screwed into.
Nail a straight 1x board horizontally across the fireplace in line with the top of the firebox and use its top edge as a shelf as you set the tiles.
Use the flat side and edge of the trowel to smooth the thinset eliminating any ridges or bumps.
Make over a brick fireplace with ceramic or natural stone tiles.
Allow the thinset to cure for 24 hours before tiling.
Work up from the board first then when the thinset hardens take it off and work down the sides of the fireplace.
On larger tiles run the notched edge of the trowel over the thinset.
Meanwhile measure the fireplace to determine the number of tiles and quantities of thinset and grout that you will need.
Repeat this process for the other three cut tiles at the base of the legs.
Lay out the tile directly on the hearth to help determine the pattern they will be installed in.
Just peel the tiles you don t want off the mesh backing then add the new ones with extra mortar when the fireplace tile is installed.
Allow the brick to dry for up to two days before proceeding.
Install thinset cement base directly to the existing brick or apply a cement board substrate.
The board also prevents the tiles from slipping before the adhesive cures.