Fireplace surround remodel.. Need some options/advice

SKINNY

Howdy folks,

I am in the process of remodeling my fireplace surround. I had envisioned a tile surround and "hearth" with a pillaster and mantle bordering the tile. After getting the old stone and mantle off I find that I have some challenges to deal with.. The lentil and the firebox brick are not flush with the drywall so simply tiling is not going to happen like I hoped. I am looking for some options to deal with the uneven surface and still get the look I want.

I think I may have to build up some brick to create an even surface and then tile over it which will box out the tile a bit.

Any other ideas?




Cheers,
SKINNY

Rotate

Do you know what is behind the brick?

I ended up taking all of my brick out and attaching cement board to the studs. It might give you a more level and stronger surface to adhere the tile to.

SKINNY

I think I am going to end up furring out some hardie backer board so that the tile clears or mates up to the edge of the firebrick.. I'll just use thinset or mortar to fill any uneven gaps.. I'm really not looking forward to attaching the furring strips to the brick.. Maybe I'll get lucky and it will go easy.