Can I finish my fireplace with man-made stone myself, or hire a professional ?

Question

We're handy but first timers. We're looking at Boulder Creek product line. We're considering stackable, groutless stone. We have a gas fireplace, framed-out by wood and 5/8 sheetrock. Boulder Creek directions state layout black rosin paper, 3/4 wire lathe, scratch coat on top and mortar to install stone. Will this process adhere to sheetrock? Should we use wonderboard instead?

Answer 1

if you are handy you should be able to do the project. but i don't think i would try adhering it to the dry wall would difinitley use wonder board.

Answer 2

it will adhere to sheetrock covered with mesh but it is not recommended for the face of the fireplace, just the sidewalls and above the mantle. anything close to the firebox should have a cement board product. the best results will be obtained if you start at the top and work down. this is to avoid dropping mortar all over the stone you just laid...take your time and follow instructions and you should be fine...

Answer 3

I wouldn't use plain Sheetrock for something of this magnitude.
If your handy, this is the way you learn. Get some research into it and look at it, give it a try. I've went in on jobs that were partly done by the owner, when they found out they were in over their heads, they called someone in to fix it, me. My wife does this all the time to me.

It's good to hear that someone has the integrity to try something on their own.