Could you recommend a book or give some advice on how to cover a brick fireplace with either stone or slate? We would also like to add a new mantle.
Answer:
Strap it with 1X2 (flat) with screws that go into mortar lines of the brick that's there. Now, you can apply stone with brick ties or you can drywall the whole thing and then glue on the slate. Take photos as each phase is done so it can be changed back to the original without much trouble if some should decide to do so at some time in the future. The photos will show where the screws are and the only repairs required will be re-pointing the existing brick when all your work has been removed.
In the interests of retaining credibility and in fairness to all, I cannot recommend prices, people nor companies for various projects. Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com.
Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.
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