how to build a stone fireplace

 There is nothing more homey than a fireplace in the living room or bedroom. You may even consider spicing up a traditional brick hearth by replacing it with stone. Building your own stone fireplace can save you money and add a personal touch to your home.
 
Things You'll Need;Mortar pan ; Masonry trowel ; Masonry nails ; Mason's hammer ; Router ;
Saw with diamond-tipped blade ; Grout float ; Grout ; Nail gun ; Cultured stone ; Wood stain ;Sealer ; Wood glue ; Lumber ; 2 by 4s ; Slate ; Plywood ; Sponge ; Mortar mix .
 
Steps
 
1Step One
Measure around the fireplace. Use those measurements to make a template on a wood board with painter's tape.
 
2Step Two
Choose the type of stone you want to use. Visit the Fireplaces website for ideas of which stone will suit your home best (see Resources bos). Place the stone in a tight pattern to fit your template. Cut the stone with a saw with a diamond-tipped blade to ensure a good fit.
 
3Step Three
Stir mortar mix with water in a pan. The mortar should have the consistency of cake batter.
 
4Step Four
Apply mortar with your trowel to the back of each stone only. Install the stone on the hearth, following the pattern you developed in the first step. 
 
5Step Five
Cut three 2 by 4 pieces of wood to become the frame. Use a nail gun to support them.
 
6Step Six
Lay stone to the mantel using mortar. After the mortar has dried, add more mortar to any cracks between stones.
 
7Step Seven
Build the wooden hearth by cutting a plywood frame that will fit inside of the firebox. Attach 2 by 4s to the underside of the hearth using a nail gun and wood glue. Place the hearth inside the firebox and install slate against the hearth frame using mortar.
 
8Step Eight
Add grout to the spaces between the stones with a grout flout. Use a wet sponge to wipe away any excess grout. After it's dry, apply a sealer between the pieces of slate.
 
9Step Nine
Measure the length of the fireplace and cut wood to fit for a mantel. If desired, add a design to the edges of the mantel with a router. Attach it to the underside of the mantel with a nail gun.