AirStone Fireplace and Mantel Makeover

First, we created a raised area — with three layers of two‐by‐fours — for the AirStone. We made four vertical rows of two‐by‐fours and then added horizontal studs in the center for extra support. Once the studs were in place, we covered them with plywood and then AirStone. We used a countersink drill bit so the screws sat flush.

We used ¼-inch-by-2½-inch blue masonry screws to attach the first layer of two-by-fours to the brick. To ensure these studs were secure, we used several screws for each stud.

If you’re copying this method, be sure to leave enough room between the fireplace opening and the studs on either side for the thickness of the AirStone. You’ll want the stone to meet with the edge of the brick when it’s in place.

Once the first layer of two-by-fours is secure, we used 2½-inch wood screws to attach the second and third layer of two-by-fours. Be sure to mark where screws are placed so you know where not to place the screws for the next layer of two-by-fours.

We created six columns of two-by-fours, each with three layers. Then covered with plywood, but use firesafe Hardie Backer boards, attaching with 2-inch wood screws.

Applying AirStone is not hard, but does take time. I used a miter saw and a tile saw blade to cut the stones. I set up a work table on the deck outside my house and used a mask and protective eyewear.

AirStone is approved to use around fireplaces when the stone is 18 inches away from the flames.

I used the calculator on AirStone’s website to determine how many boxes of stone I needed.

The stones come in three different shapes — flat, natural edge and corner. I used flat and corner, as well as exterior adhesive since I was applying the stones over plywood.

If applying vertical planks over brick on either side of the fireplace, you’ll need to add these before putting the AirStone on so that the stone goes over the plank to create a nice finished edge where the wall and stone meet.

1. Allow AirStone to acclimate to the temperature in the house before laying it. It expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations.

2. Lay out the stones on the floor so you can see all the color variations. Space them out evenly as you build the fireplace front.

I had to cut flat stones to fit on the underside of these stones to make sure all the plywood was completely covered.

4. Then I started on the bottom of one side and built up from there, checking with a level after each row.

5. When I got to the mantel, I slid the stones behind the mantel as far as they would go (against the spacer). At the ceiling line, I had to cut the stone into thin pieces to fit the remaining space.

6. I primed and painted the front of the brick hearth and the plywood planks I added over the brick. I used Liquid Nails to attach the planks to the brick.

AirStone cannot be used on the hearth, so I left the top of the hearth alone. I am still searching for slate in the right thickness to place on top of the brick hearth eventually.

With a few accessories and some living greenery and flowers, it all came together beautifully.

Total Cost: $1,460