Dear Julie: Building a mantel is not a difficult do-it-yourself task. If you think adding a complete wood surround is beyond your skill level, try just cleaning the bricks first. With a good cleaning, ...

In this video, I showcase the transformation of an outdated fireplace mantle into a modern farmhouse centerpiece. The custom design features a classic herringbone tile surround and is complemented by ...

Measure the area for the surround and the fireplace dimensions. Determine the exact top of the fireplace, because you’ll be setting a support slab across both sides of the surround to complete it. Dry ...

For contractors, installing a cast stone fireplace in a residence, condo or apartment building can present so many labor and material costs - not to mention installation issues - that it can scuttle a ...

The holidays have come and gone. Yet winter lingers, and we in the Pacific Northwest are left with several more months of cold rain, early sunsets and gray days. To lift your spirits and escape the ...

Whenever we finish a big project - in this case, a privacy fence in our backyard made out of doors - I think, we need to chill out for a while before we start something new. But then I read blogs or ...