How to Put Tile Around a Wood Burning Stove
- 1). Spread thinset over the fireplace surface surrounding the wood stove. Mix the thinset according to the directions on the package. Apply the thinset with a notched trowel. If you are working with a wood surface around the stove, measure the fireplace edge and cut out cement board to the dimensions with a masonry blade. The cement board will help the tiles adhere better. Drill 3-inch screws through the board and into the wood. Let the thinset dry for a day.
- 2). Drill a wood strip across the wood stove so the top of the strip is even with the top edge of the stove's outer metal shield. A level helps ensure it is straight.
- 3). Spread a new batch of thinset mortar above the wood strip. Place the tiles you select along the top of the strip. Leave a 1/8-inch gap between the tiles by inserting spacers. Start at the center point of the stove, setting one tile on either side of the center. Continue placing tiles outward on both sides to complete the row.
- 4). Apply tiles to the second row, placing the first one on the center mark to stagger the seams.
- 5). Cut tiles with a tile cutter or circular saw. Measure and mark the tiles to fit the ends and cut along the lines. Let the tiles dry for a day and remove the wood strip.
- 6). Tile the sides of the stove in a similar way. Cut out tiles to fit the edges along the metal shield. The shield is there to cover any gap between the stove insert and the fireplace wall. Let the tile dry for a day.
- 7). Grout the tile. Spread the grout into the gaps with a float. Wipe the tiles with a damp rag as you apply the grout so it doesn't dry on the surface. Let the grout dry for two days.
- 8). Seal the grout with a tube of grout sealant. Squeeze the tube over the grout. Let the sealant dry for several hours.
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