How to Tile a Fireplace Mantel

Prepare the surface of your mantel. If you are tiling over a wooden mantel, you simply need to sand down your area with coarse-grit sandpaper. Follow by wiping the area clean with a warm, damp rag. Fill any cracks or nail holes with wood filler and let dry completely before sanding. If you are tiling over brick, rough up the surface area with a side grinder to remove paint and make the mortar easier to apply. If your mantel is already tiled, remove previous tile with a crowbar and mallet. Grind down the area to create a level surface.

Start from the center of your mantel to decide on the layout of your tile. You may want it to hang straight, or at an angle. To create a mosaic effect, use smaller tiles to create your desired pattern. Sketch your layout and make your needed measurements for any necessary cuts. Planning in advance will minimize the cuts you will have to make, which also minimizes wasted tiles.

Make your cuts using a wet saw. Wear protective goggles to avoid having any debris fly into your eyes while making your cuts.

Mix your mortar in a bucket as per manufacturer's instructions. Cover your trowel with mortar and cover a section of your mantel. Again, start from the center to be sure your tile design is symmetrical. Use the trowel and a spatula also to cover the back of your tile, as if you were spreading butter on toast. Position your tile in place and press firmly.

Continue until your mantel is covered. Place spacers in between your tiles as needed to keep your pattern consistent and professional-looking. To secure your tiles in place, you may want to use a piece of plywood as a weight. If possible, clamp firmly in place without cracking your tile. Allow to dry for 24 hours.

Mix up your grout as indicated on the packing. Use your trowel to cover the surface of your tiles with your grout. Use your finger if necessary to fill the gaps in between your tiles. Apply liberal amounts of grout, wiping up excess with a wet sponge as you go along. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours or as indicated on packaging.