fireplace facade river rocks how do i do this?

Question

I have a brick fireplace with 2 coats of laytex paint (hideous) . I want to cover the facade with flat-ish gray river rocks. How should I do this? plaster, mastic? The rocks are 3 inches across at max and are flat and not round.
ty

Answer 1

Some valid suggestions so far. You state FLAT; but don't state MILLED for the purpose of facade work.

By definition "facade" relates to FAUX.

I find it sad that BRICK was ever "painted" in the first place; but have suggestions if in fact the river rocks are better than "FLATISH" on the mortar side.

I'd probably cover the area with concrete backer board; then mesh; then PICK those NON milled stones that will most adhere in a Mortar; then use a mortar like what was used for the brick in the first place.

A tedious project at best, primarily in setting the initial, bottom course; allowing it to set; then building Up from it. FITTING will be much like crafting a Mosaic; at least with regard to aesthetics. Hopefully you're Ok with not rushing the project. You could allow just BACK mortar, or SQUEEZE mortar to push out between the rocks.

I did a 400 sq. ft. floor with broken terracotta tile, and after the fact; found areas I might have cut to fit more closely. I guess if this was my place (fireplace) I might consider removal of the Paint, and enjoying BRICK, which was never intended to be covered by paint in the first place.

Steven Wolf

Answer 2

There is a great book called "Stone by Design" that will help give you some wonderful ideas.

We did our fireplace about 8 years ago. There are so many different types of rock to choose from, but you must go to the Rock Store and purchase manmade rocks that are flat on the back side. Lay out your design on the floor first. Then get yourself cement and start around the fireplace opening. Try to get the pieces to fit tight. That looks the best. That's actually what the book I recommened is about. Have fun!

Answer 3

Use the same mortar as you would use for a brick or stone wall. Also, if you have a grinder or belt sander with diamond grit, you should make sure one side is perfectly flat. It will be a much sturdier installation.

(Put the mortar on the wall and between the rocks, pressing and squeazing it out between them. Clean it off later.)

Answer 4

don't use any smooth river rocks, they explode sometimes

get some quickcrete, premixed sand already in it

mix small batches

maybe try a batch a day ahead of time for practice, to learn how to use it

its very cheep , like $5 for 80 pounds