Fireplace makeover-Phase three: An easy to follow, DIY tutorial on how to build a fireplace surround.

I saved the best for last. My favorite part of the Fireplace Makeover was covering up that dated, ugly tile. I purposely saved this step as a grand finale to myself! After all, that tile is the primary reason I have wanted (since we moved into this house 12 years ago) to update our fireplace. I have never liked it and I’m happy to say, it is GONE! Well, it’s still there, but you can’t see it anymore. :) Not all of it anyway. So, how did I do it? By building a fireplace surround….Let’s get to the details….

But first, as I’ve done with all of the posts in this series (Phase 1; Phase 2), a quick

BEFORE…

and AFTER….

How to Build a Fireplace Surround Covering Tile

Materials Needed:

MDF Board (amount needed is dependent upon project)

Sharpie

Gorilla Construction Adhesive    (Affiliate Link)

Caulk

Primer      (Affiliate Link)

Paint

Tools Needed:

Table saw

Miter saw

Step One: Outline where MDF will go

Draw on your tile the outline of where you want your MDF to go, using a sharpie. I chose to expose some of my tile and not cover up all of it.

Step Two: Cut MDF to fit

Using your table saw, cut MDF to fit in space outlined in step one.

Step Three: Attach MDF

Attach MDF with Gorilla Construction Adhesive. Just as a side note, I did my homework on this glue and learned that it is one of, if not the strongest, adhesive available on the market. It worked very well. I do highly recommend it.  (Affiliate Link)

Attach all pieces with your adhesive…

Step Four: Outline trim design 

Determine the design you want your fireplace to have. I found it easiest to draw out this design on my MDF boards…

Then I was able to cut the right size needed for all of my trim work….

This is the pattern I mapped out….

Step Five: Caulk, Caulk, Caulk

Caulk all of those seams!!

Step Six: Prime MDF

MDF is very absorbent, so it is helpful and ensures less work (who doesn’t like that?) if you prime before you paint. This is the primer I like to use…

As you can see, I also primed my tile that I kept exposed….

Step Seven: Paint

Next, I painted my exposed tile gray (Sherwin Williams Peppercorn)…

Then I painted all of my MDF with Sherwin Williams Extra White.

I wasn’t real wild about the faux wood handles on my fireplace doors, so I painted those too….

Can I just say, I am loving the new look of our fireplace!! And it only took 3 simple phases to get the fireplace I have been dreaming of. So worth it!! And the best part–I did it!! Think of all the money I saved. And the satisfaction of knowing that I built that–so rewarding!

Designer Tip: When It Might Be Time to Bring in Help

If you’re working on your home and things still don’t feel quite right, you’re not alone. Many of our clients start exactly where you are now. They’ve gathered ideas, saved inspiration photos, and maybe even purchased a few pieces, but the space still doesn’t feel cohesive. That’s often the moment when having a designer can make all the difference. We help homeowners create a clear plan so every decision works together. From layout and furniture placement to finishes and lighting, the goal is a space that feels thoughtful, comfortable, and complete.

If you’d like a little guidance with your space, you can learn more about our interior design services below.

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Planning a kitchen, living room, or full home project? Start with a quick discovery call to see if we’re a good fit.

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Don’t forget to PIN THIS tutorial to your Pinterest boards…

Until next time,

Happy Building, Friend!!

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Fireplace Makeover Series:

Fireplace Makeover from Contemporary to Modern Farmhouse

How to Build a Faux Wood Beam Mantel

How to Build a Raised Fireplace Hearth