Give your Fireplace New Life by
Changing your Fireplace Facing

Fireplaces can really set the tone of a room, yet many homeowners just don't
know what to do with them. This is a shame because using a fireplace as a
focal point is an important part of decorating. If you ask these homeowners
why they don't take advantage of the fireplace's presence and use it as a
decorating element, they usually reply that the fireplace facing is not very
attractive. Well, guess what? You can change the fireplace facing! Yep,
you can give your fireplace and your room a major boost in the looks
department.

There are a several things to think of when you decide to change your
fireplace facing. First of all, what type of material will you use? There
are countless options. If your fireplace is from the floor to the ceiling,
that is a lot of area to cover. Consider what materials will look
appropriate and will strike the right chord in the room. Do you have a
rustic western theme or country cabin theme going in your room? Limestone,
slate or river rocks are great options that can really play into that type
of décor. Even southwestern themes can play into the rough rock look. But
what if your budget does not allow real rock? Consider veneer facings that
look like real rock but for the fraction of the price and weight.

If you are going for an elegant, classy look for your fireplace facing,
marble, tile and brick options are plentiful. With a variety of colors and
textures to choose from, you can perfectly match the room's ambiance. Plus,
there is neutrality to these classic choices that would work well with
almost any other décor as well.

Stucco and Venetian plaster brings a texture to your fireplace that is a
throwback to the old days. Wood and decorative molding can be stained or
painted to reflect the theme. Metal fireplace facing is an option as well.
Sheets of metal flashing in stainless steel or copper are popular choices.
Some people have scoured antique shopping districts for those old-time tin
ceiling tiles. Many of them have fine detailing that offers a unique element
to the room. These tin tiles could be refinished for a more polished look
or left untouched for a homier feel.

Before you start prepping your area to replace the fireplace facing, you
should consider your existing mantel. If you are please with it and have no
plans to replace it, you will have to work around it. That means, the
facing material you use has to be flexible or small enough to be installed
between the mantel area and the firebox. Of course, if you have no mantel
at the moment, you work will be that much easier!

When creating a budget for your fireplace facing replacement project, take
into account your do-it-yourself status. Do you feel confident enough to
handle the work yourself? If not, you will have to budget contract labor
into your number crunching. Otherwise, your next step in the budgeting
process is to price all of your materials and make sure you do not need any
special tools. Just think, when all is said and done, you will have a new
focal point in your room and you might actually use your fireplace - all
thanks to a fireplace facing facelift!