What this covers
Refacing changes the look of a fireplace without touching the firebox or chimney. Common finishes are stone or brick veneer, tile, a plaster or limewash finish, or a new wood surround and mantel. The installer cleans and prepares the old face, adds lath or a bonding coat where the material needs it, and sets the new finish in mortar or thinset. Noncombustible material is kept within the required distance of the opening, and a wood mantel is set at the height the clearances allow. Drop cloths and dust control matter, because the work is done in a lived-in room.
When to call
- Dated or painted brick that no longer suits the room.
- A surround stained by smoke or soot after a small fire.
- Cracked tile or a loose hearth that needs replacing.
What to expect
- ChooseThe new finish, mantel and hearth are chosen and the clearances checked.
- PrepareThe old face is cleaned, the room protected, and lath or bonding coat applied.
- SetStone, tile or plaster is applied and the mantel and hearth are installed.
- Clean upJoints are finished, the face is cleaned and the room is cleared of dust.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Can stone go over old brick?
Yes. Thin stone veneer is often set over brick that is clean and sound, sometimes with metal lath and a scratch coat for a better bond.
How high does the mantel go?
High enough to meet the required clearance above the opening, which depends on how far the mantel projects. The installer checks it against the code and the manufacturer's instructions.
Does refacing fix a smoky fireplace?
No. Refacing is cosmetic. A fireplace that smokes needs its damper, flue or chimney looked at.
Related: Fireplace installation · Gas fireplace inserts · Chimney repair · All specialty interiors
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.