![]() ![]() Using a concrete bonding agent such as Quikrete bonding adhesive, or an acrylic fortifier such as Quikrete acrylic fortifier will help the mortar bond to the Thinbrick and to the concrete board. I used some Thinbrick and mortar left over from our basement wall project to create a raised boarder as well as line the sides of the opening. Part of the goal design was a raised border around the opening. ![]() I misted the new stucco twice a day for 4 days to help it dry/precure gradually as this can apparently help prevent hairline cracks from forming. The stucco was left to dry for a few days before I hung the mantle. When stucco does this it becomes rather stiff and more difficult to work with. I found that the concrete board quickly absorbed the water from the stucco causing the stucco to thicken quickly once applied. This will help the stucco bond to the concrete board. TIPS: Before applying the stucco apply a bonding adhesive to the concrete board, or add some acrylic fortifier directly to the stucco mix. – There were a few areas, such as the sides, when I wish I had a mini trowel, but it isn’t necessary. Start applying at the bottom of the wall and work your way up. Water filled spray bottle – mist the stucco when needed if the stucco stiffens too quickly. – finishing trowel – I also experimented with a pool trowel and found it a little easier to work with than the finishing trowel, but it is a little more expensive and just boils down to personal preference. – a scoop to get the stucco out of the bucket You can catch the video process in our instagram story highlights! There is a learning curve, so I highly recommend a little practice an a scrap board to help get a feel for how to work with the stucco material and tools. This was my first time stuccoing, so I did not know exactly what to expect, but I must say that it was easier than expected. Cook. You might be able to find the same in your area! We found an Atlanta based supplier though that carried a white stucco produced by A.W. This can be painted once the stucco is fully cured, but a painted look is not exactly what we were hoping for. Standard stucco is usually a grey color when dry. The last step was to apply the stucco of choice. These cracks are easily fixed with a little more stucco though. I developed slight cracks over some seams, and I believe a wider mesh would have prevented the cracks. Vinyl or galvanized corner bead is recommended.įrom there I covered the seams with Backerboard Seam Tape, but to be honest, I wish I would have used a wider fiberglass mesh. I then installed some corner bead to the exterior corners. Due to the alkaline nature of the concrete board, standard screws can rust over time. When using concrete board be sure to use specific screws designed to work with concrete board, not standard drywall screws. ![]() Once the frame was up and secured, we installed concrete board to the front, sides and interior opening of the fireplace surround. The progress shot our contractor sent us of the cement boards (When working with steel studs you have to make sure to use fasteners that are designed for metal to properly connect the metal studs together.) We then attached the frame to existing studs in the wall where possible. The arch located at the top of the fireplace opening was made of a steel stud as well which had the side supports trimmed to allow the stud to be bent into a curve. To ensure the proper clearance of combustible material, we only used wood 2x4s on the outermost frame supports, with all remaining portions of the frame constructed with steel studs. Knowing I had a short deadline to work with, we worked with some friends who have a handyman business to help me with the frame. We started out by building a 2×4 frame that extended to the ceiling. Our entire surround is built out of non combustible cement products, brick and steel, except for the outermost studs of the frame. The key is to keep all combustible materials away from the fireplace opening. We came up with a design with a similar look that also worked with fire code! Below is the process, materials, and total cost! The inspiration for our fireplace by MagnoliaĪnna’s vision for the new look of our fireplace surround was heavily influenced by the look of classic Southwest and Spanish stucco fireplaces. We are hoping to break down the process of our fireplace design to answer any questions you may have if you want to give this a try in your own home! When looking into revamping a fireplace surround, it is really important to research, and make sure you check out both national fire code and local fire code before you begin! We consulted multiple fireplace/chimney companies in the area, and spoke with a member of our local fire department just to make sure we were on track. ![]()
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