Are you on the search for a unique way to upgrade a fireplace in your home? Consider installing faux stone panels along the mantel and frame for an instant DIY fireplace refresh!
Faux stone panels are incredibly beneficial because they are affordable, durable, and may boost your property value — what’s not to like about that? Plus, they are a great way to update your space without having to demo your existing fireplace.
If you are not sure how to install faux stone panels on a fireplace, don’t fret. We have broken down the process step-by-step so it’s as easy and DIY-friendly as possible.
Prepare the Space
Before you choose your faux stone panels and get into installation, you want to ensure that your fireplace is in good condition and structurally sound. Because you will be adhering panels to the fireplace, if it is weak or in poor condition, it may not hold the weight of the new panels.
You will want to wipe the surfaces of your fireplace clean to get rid of any debris, dirt, or dust. This will ensure a strong bond with your panels.
Finally, 24 hours before installing faux stone panels, you want to allow them time to acclimate to the installation location. You should store them flat and away from moisture, direct sunlight, and heat sources.
Materials Needed
At AZ Faux, we carry a wide variety of faux stone panels that vary in different styles and colors. We even offer samples of our panels so you can assess the color and style in your space before ordering.
Before getting started with installation, gather the following tools and materials:
- Caulk gun
- Chalk line or laser
- Clean cloth
- Color-coordinating textured caulk
- Cotton swabs
- Level
- Loctite PL Premium 3X Construction Adhesive
- Panels
- Pencil
- Safety Glasses
- Small Paint Brush
- T-Square
- Tack cloth
- Tape measure
- Touch-up kit
- Water
- Woodcutting saw with a finish blade
Faux stone panels can be installed in one of two ways:
- Adhesive only (over concrete, masonry, or metal) OR
- Adhesive and fastener method (recommended)
If you choose to install using the adhesive-only method; you’ll need these additional materials:
- Disposable gloves
- Great Stuff Applicator Gun
- Great Stuff Pro Gun Cleaner
- Great Stuff Pro Construction Adhesive
If you choose to install using the recommended adhesive and fastener method; you’ll need these additional materials:
- Deck screws
- Screw gun/drill driver and driver bits
Guide for How to Install Faux Stone Panels On a Fireplace
Now that you’ve prepped your space, gathered materials and tools, and found an amazing faux stone panel for your DIY fireplace project, it’s time to get started!
Step 1. Determine the installation order of the panels
Your panels can only be installed in one direction, depending on the panel style. Before getting started, you’ll have to determine which direction your installation work should flow. To do this, simply lay one of your panels flat on the ground so that the flat lip on side “A” is up. If the fingers of your panel project to the left, you will install left to right. If the fingers are on the right side of your panel, you’ll install from right to left.
Helpful Installation Hint: Offset the seams for a more realistic look. To reduce waste and save some cash, try using portions from panels you previously cut to start and finish each row.
Step 2. Draw your level line
Using your chalk line or laser, draw a level line that you will reference when lining up the first row of your faux stone panels. To do this, place a full panel against the surface of your fireplace and mark the highest point with a pencil or chalk line. Continue your level line across the entire surface.
Step 3. Start at the corner
If you are installing faux stone paneling around the corners of your fireplace, the corner you start at is dictated by your panels. As stated above, if your panels indicate a left-to-right workflow, you’ll install the left corner first and then progress to a full panel. Frequently corners need to be mitered for a clean edge. See our instructions on how to miter a clean edge.
Step 4. Trim the first panel
If you do not have a corner to start with, you will need to trim the edges of your first panel using the wood cutting saw with the finish blade. You want the edge to be as clean as possible.
Step 5. Apply adhesive and adhere it to the wall
Apply adhesive to the back of the panel using the caulk gun and Loctite PL 3X. Then adhere the faux stone panel to the wall in its correct placement.
Step 6. Screw the panel to the wall
If you are using the adhesive-only method, you can skip this step.
Using the deck screws, you need to further secure the panel to the wall by placing screws along the perimeter and in the body of the panel. Place them under protruding rocks or in the grout lines to make them less noticeable.
It is important not to overtighten the screws as it could damage the panels.
Step 7. Add adhesive and caulk
Before placing the next faux stone panel on the wall, add adhesive and caulk to the slot side of the panel. The adhesive helps minimize gaps due to seasonal expansion and contraction. The caulk will keep any moisture out. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess before it dries.
Step 8. Repeat (current and next row)
Repeat steps 4-7 until all faux stone panels have been installed and your fireplace upgrade is complete!
FAQs for Installing Faux Stone Panels on a Fireplace
As with any DIY project, you’re bound to have questions. That’s why we’re here to offer any help you need along the way. Here are some common FAQs about how to install faux stone panels on a fireplace.
What are the benefits of using faux stone panels?
There are many pros to using faux stone panels on your fireplace instead of real stone. A few of the benefits of faux stone panels include:
- More affordable than real stone
- Reduced labor
- More lightweight than real stone
- User-friendly
- Requires little to no maintenance
- Better consistency in the stone design
- Less messy to install
Can you put faux stone panels over a brick fireplace?
Yes! Because faux stone panels use adhesive, they can adhere to existing brick, concrete, metal, or masonry fireplaces. This can be an excellent time and money saver for you to have the fireplace of your dreams without having to demo a thing!
Looking to upgrade your fireplace with faux brick instead of stone? You can do that too! Check out our step-by-step guide for installing faux brick panels on your fireplace.
What are the best practices for fire safety?
Most of our products can be used around a fireplace opening, insert, or stove provided you follow the fireplace insert/stove manufacturer's specifications for required clearances.
Faux stone panels beautifully mimic the look and feel of natural stone, but they are not the real thing. If you plan to install your panels close to live flames, you must follow all building codes and instructions provided by the manufacturer of the fireplace insert.
Always leave a non-flammable border of at least 6” between the fire box and the panels. Some local building codes may require a larger border. . Faux panels are not to be installed on the hearth.
Start Your Faux Stone Fireplace Project Today!
From the living room to the bedroom, fireplaces bring warmth and coziness wherever they are in the home. If your fireplace is outdated or doesn’t offer that wow factor you’re after, you’re in luck. Faux stone panels are a wonderfully affordable and realistic way to refresh your fireplace to be just the focal point your space needs.
Are you ready to upgrade your fireplace with faux stone panels? Check out our collection below to find the perfect style of faux stone for your home.