Stone is a heavy material, and it is usually wise to get a professional to fit a stone fireplace. Some retailers and manufacturers offer a fireplace fitting service for a fee, or may be able to put you in touch with a professional capable of doing the job to the expected standards.
If your DIY skills are OK and you wish to have a go at fitting a stone fireplace, here are some tips to help you:
1. If you buy a ready-made stone fireplace, it will come with a fixing kit designed to make fitting easier. Follow instructions carefully and make sure you have all the correct tools to hand. If you do not feel confident handling the job alone, enlist the help of a friend.
2. If you are feeling particularly brave, you may wish to build your stone fireplace from scratch. The first job will be to decide which type of stone is to be used and the style of fireplace to be built – will it reach from floor to ceiling? Go across the whole wall? Whichever type of stone fireplace you build, the supporting structure will have to be built accordingly. Gather all material and tools together.
3. If you are a complete novice, it may be wise to use a stone fireplace kit rather than individual stones – this will be much easier to put together.
4. If you are building a fireplace from scratch, you will need a template. Measure around the fireplace and make the template, according to measurements, on a wooden board.
5. Pack the stone tightly within the template in the chosen pattern, using a diamond blade saw to cut the stones, in order to ensure a good fit.
6. Mix mortar and apply to the back of each stone, using a trowel. Install stones on the hearth first, in desired pattern. There are many colours of mortar, so choose one that complements the colour of stone used.
7. Build the fireplace frame, with 2 by 4 pieces of wood and a nail gun. Secure in place.
8. Fix stones to the frame with mortar. When this has dried, use mortar to fill any spaces between the stones.
9. Place grout between the stones, using a damp sponge to wipe any excess away. If slate is used, a sealer will need to be applied.
If this is your first attempt at fitting a fireplace, it is probably wise to stick to a basic design. If you want something elaborate, it is always best to seek the advice of a professional in regard to fitting a stone fireplace.
