How to Repair a Fireplace Hearth
Repairing a fireplace hearth is a challenging job, but one that can restore the beauty of your fireplace. Hearths are hard to keep up with by the simple nature of the placement in proximity to the fireplace. As a result you may need to make some repairs from time to time.
Repairing and restoring an old fireplace hearth is a good way to bring beauty back in to the room. With some simple tools and time anyone can pull this challenging job off.
What You'll Need:
- Masonry chisel
- Vacuum
- Lumber
- Concrete
- Trowel
- Use the masonry chisel to pull out the old hearth tiles and mortar. You shouldn't need to touch the firebox or the concrete base under the hearth at all. This process is time consuming, so don't expect it to be done in just a few hours.
- Sweep the hearth and use a shop vacuum to remove any debris left behind. Clean the area and allow it to dry and settle before moving on.
- Cut a piece of lumber that is at least a foot longer than the actual health. Notch the ends so it will fit into the hearth area.
- Use a spray bottle to wet down the area where you're pouring the new hearth. The concrete needs moisture so it doesn't dry too quickly or pull the moisture out entirely.
- Mix the concrete and pour it in to the hearth. As you pour the concrete you'll use the board to tamp it down. It will need to be moved back and forth as you work to give you an even finish.
- Allow the concrete to dry overnight. It will need several days before you can light a fire again.