A worn or outdated fireplace is an absolute waste of what could potentially be the best feature in the entire home. There may be broken pieces of brick or stone accompanied by the wear of soot exposure over the years.

If you don’t feel completely satisfied with the style or condition of your fireplace, it’s time for a full makeover provided by refacing. Whether you choose to undertake the entire project yourself or trust the expertise of a professional, you should begin with a clear project plan according to your desired result.

Stone Resurfacing

Changing the surface of an old brick fireplace is as easy as attaching decorative stone panels. The pieces weigh less than a full stone, but you still get the same advantages of natural beauty and warmth in the room. Coordinate the colors and tones to match the existing decor surrounding the fireplace.

Tile Over Old Brick

Another easy solution for covering old brick is to apply decorative tiles to the surface. Larger matching tiles make for a quick project featuring a modern look, or apply smaller tiles for a more intricate design.

Implement Natural Granite

One great benefit of granite is that the natural stone is resistant to high heat. With a wide selection of color options to select from, it’s easy to coordinate the updated granite look with your decor style.

Surround With Paneling

If you’re ready for a large renovation project, add paneling around the fireplace to give it a built-in look. Continue further with the addition of built-in bookcases or other storage solutions that complete the wall.

Extend to the Ceiling

Don’t feel constrained to update the fireplace according to the current size. By extending the fireplace all the way to the ceiling, there is more surface to cover with the attractive stones and textures that you install. Stacking thin stones enhances the texture, or use large fieldstones to build charm and character. Preview looks that would go great with your existing interior space by using the stacked stone visualizer tool found here.

Install Your Television

The natural focal point of the average living room is the television set. You’ll want to show off the refaced fireplace once completed, so consider merging the two focal points into one area. Install the flat screen TV above the fireplace and use paint colors or stones to tie the two features together.

Add Wooden Accents

Layer planks of reclaimed wood over the fireplace as an effortless and rugged accent piece. You could also use wood to create columns to one side of the firebox or use it to create an entire mantel.

Complete With A Mantel

Speaking of the mantel, if the existing fireplace in your home is without one, then this should be part of the project. A basic style is easy to achieve if you want the fireplace to seem more complete, or you could go the extra mile to make it an extraordinary architectural focal point.

Attach Hearth Seating

There’s nothing cozier than warming up by the fire on plush hearth seating. It will come in handy to have extra seating when friends or family visit, and it’s easy to add seating that features extra storage drawers.