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Bedroom/Bathroom Expansion, Pt. 3: Build a Stone Facade for a Fireplace A no-compromise bedroom/bath remodel may stretch the budget, but should pay off in the long run. Check out more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-204

After: The master bedroom suite features a fireplace with stone facade.

A finishing touch to Aaron and Kathy's master suite is their fireplace. A stone facade will make this fireplace a centerpiece to the room.

Materials and tools:

mortar, sand, water
stone
wheelbarrow
trowel
chisel
hammer
wall ties
screws
level

Safety Alerts

• Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools.

• When working with cement, always wear a dust mask.
  

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  	Figure A
  	Figure B

  Building a Stone Facade for a Fireplace

  Tip: Measure the area and determine how many square feet of stone you will need. Remember to add 10 percent for waste.

  Steps:

  • Tack wire mesh to your surface, this will help the cement grip the stones (figure A).

  • Mix your mortar in the wheelbarrow with a trowel. The mix is usually one part mortar to two parts sand, with water added until a thick peanut butter consistency is achieved.

  • As you work up, butter the sides and backs of the stones to prevent gaps and insure a good fit.

  • You can cut stones with your chisel & hammer to maintain a consistent joint size. Use a level to check that the stones stay plumb against the wall as you work up.

  • As you build the stone wall up, add wall ties to secure the wall when it dries. Install wall ties on either end of the wall by embedding one end into the cement and screwing the other end into the wall. Do this every few layers, or at most four feet (figure B).

  View the complete episode index, and access all projects from DIY's Sweat Equity series.
  

  
  

  RESOURCES :
  

  Resources for Sweat Equity, episode 204:

  SunTouch, Radiant Floor Heating
  Website: www.suntouch.com

  SanSiro USA
  Website: www.sansirousa.com

  Pella Windows
  Website: www.pellacolorado.com

  Robern Cabinets
  Website: www.robern.com

  
  

  GUESTS :
  

  Brian Propp, Insulated Component Structures – Rocky Mountain, Inc.
  Website: www.ics-rm.com

  RELATED PROJECTS: Inside Job: Bathroom Suite Transformation Blog Cabin: Power Shower and Bathroom Vanity Blog Cabin: Bathroom Tile and Radiant Heat Flooring Mats Demolition: Bathroom Blowout Room to Grow: How to Install Bathroom Tile

  
  

  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	Bedroom/Bathroom Expansion, Pt. 1: Install a Heated Tile Floor
  	Bedroom/Bathroom Expansion, Pt. 2: Install a Steam Shower
  	Bedroom/Bathroom Expansion, Pt. 3: Build a Stone Facade for a Fireplace
  	Bedroom/Bathroom Expansion, Pt. 4: Value Boosts and Final Tally