Fireplace Remodel Process – What to Expect

Hi, it’s Nick Kayser with Mustache Approved Remodeling, and today I want to walk you through exactly what happens during a fireplace remodel. Whether you’re in Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, or anywhere else in the Phoenix East Valley, understanding the process helps you know what to expect from start to finish.

A fireplace remodel is one of the most dramatic transformations you can make in your home. It changes the entire feel of your living space, adds value, and creates a stunning focal point. But what actually goes into the process? Let me break it down step by step.

🔥 Phase 1: Design & Planning

Every successful fireplace remodel starts with a solid plan. This is where we sit down with you to understand your vision, your style preferences, and how you use your space. Are you looking for a modern, sleek look? A rustic stone fireplace? A dramatic floor-to-ceiling tile feature?

During this phase, we’ll discuss:

• Material selection – tile, stone, quartz, marble, wood mantels, metal accents
• Layout changes – extending the fireplace to the ceiling, adding built-ins, creating a hearth
• Functional upgrades – converting to gas, adding remote controls, installing new inserts
• Design style – modern, traditional, transitional, rustic, contemporary

This planning phase ensures we’re all on the same page before any demolition begins. Whether you’re in Gilbert, Mesa, or Ahwatukee, we make sure your fireplace remodel fits your home’s architecture and your personal style.

🛠️ Phase 2: Demolition & Preparation

Once the design is finalized, it’s time to remove the old fireplace surround. This is where the transformation really begins. We carefully protect your floors, furniture, and surrounding areas with heavy-duty drop cloths and plastic sheeting. Dust containment is a priority.

What gets removed:

• Old tile, stone, or brick surround
• Damaged or outdated mantels
• Worn hearth materials
• Any rotted or compromised framing

During demolition, we assess the condition of the wall structure behind the old materials. Sometimes we discover hidden issues – water damage, improper framing, or outdated fireplace components that need attention. That’s why working with a licensed general contractor like Mustache Approved Remodeling (ROC# 309760) matters. We handle these discoveries professionally and keep your project moving forward.

🧱 Phase 3: Structural Work & Framing

After demolition, we move into the structural phase. This is where we build the foundation for your new fireplace design. If you’re extending your fireplace to the ceiling or adding built-in cabinets on either side, this is when that framing happens.

Common structural upgrades include:

• Building out the fireplace wall for more depth and dimension
• Extending the surround vertically to create a dramatic floor-to-ceiling feature
• Adding blocking and support for heavy stone or tile installations
• Creating recessed niches for decorative elements
• Installing proper backing for TV mounts above the fireplace

All framing is done to code standards with attention to proper clearances around the firebox. We ensure everything is level, plumb, and square – because precision here means a flawless finished product.

🎨 Phase 4: Surface Preparation & Backing

Before any tile or stone goes up, we need the right surface to install it on. This typically means installing cement board (like Durock or Hardibacker) over the framing. Cement board provides a stable, moisture-resistant surface that tile and stone can properly adhere to. We also install materials over drywall, depends on the application.

For fireplace remodels, we pay special attention to:

• Heat resistance – materials near the firebox must handle high temperatures
• Proper fastening – cement board must be securely attached every 8 inches
• Seam treatment – all joints are taped and sealed for a unified surface
• Corner reinforcement – metal corner beads ensure crisp, durable edges

This preparation work is invisible in the final result, but it’s absolutely critical for long-term durability. Whether we’re working on a home in Scottsdale or Chandler, the prep work is always done to our Mustache Approved standards.

🏗️ Phase 5: Tile & Stone Installation

This is where your fireplace truly starts to take shape. Tile and stone installation is both a science and an art. Every piece must be precisely placed, properly spaced, and securely bonded.

The installation process includes:

• Layout planning – we dry-fit the pattern to ensure perfect symmetry
• Thinset application – using the correct trowel size and proper coverage
• Tile placement – each tile is set level and properly spaced
• Cutting & fitting – precise cuts around outlets, corners, and the firebox
• Pattern continuity – maintaining consistent grout lines and visual flow

For large-format tiles or natural stone, we use specialized techniques to ensure proper adhesion and prevent lippage (where one tile sits higher than another). Modern fireplace designs often feature dramatic large-format porcelain slabs, stacked stone ledgers, or intricate mosaic patterns – each requiring specific installation expertise.

Recent fireplace remodel in Scottsdale, AZ

🎯 Phase 6: Grouting & Sealing

After the tile or stone has cured for 24-48 hours, we return for grouting. Grout fills the joints between tiles, locking everything together and creating a finished, cohesive look. Grout color selection is crucial – it can either highlight the tile pattern or create a seamless, monolithic appearance.

Our grouting process:

• Deep cleaning of all joints before grout application
• Proper grout mixing for consistent color and workability
• Complete joint filling with no voids or gaps
• Careful cleanup to prevent hazing or residue
• Proper cure time before sealing

For natural stone installations, we apply a penetrating sealer to protect against staining and moisture. This is especially important for lighter stones like marble or travertine. The sealer enhances the stone’s natural color while providing long-term protection.

Fireplace transformation in Tempe, AZ

🪵 Phase 7: Mantel & Trim Installation

If your design includes a mantel, this is when it gets installed. Mantels can be made from solid wood, reclaimed timber, modern metal, or even floating designs that appear to defy gravity. Each type requires different mounting techniques.

Mantel installation considerations:

• Proper clearances – maintaining safe distances from the firebox opening
• Secure mounting – heavy mantels need serious structural support
• Level placement – even slight tilts are immediately visible
• Finish matching – staining or painting to complement your design

We also install any trim pieces, edge treatments, or decorative elements during this phase. Everything is fitted precisely and finished to perfection.

⚡ Phase 8: Electrical & Gas Work

Many fireplace remodels include functional upgrades beyond just aesthetics. This might mean:

• Installing outlets for wall-mounted TVs
• Adding accent lighting above or beside the fireplace
• Running conduit for hidden wire management
• Converting wood-burning fireplaces to gas
• Installing gas log sets or modern gas inserts
• Adding remote control systems

All electrical and gas work is performed by licensed professionals in compliance with safety standards. We coordinate these trades seamlessly so your project stays on schedule.

Beautiful fireplace upgrade in Chandler, AZ

🎨 Phase 9: Paint & Final Finishes

As we approach the finish line, any drywall surrounding the fireplace gets its final paint. We carefully mask off all tile and stone work to ensure crisp, clean paint lines. If you’re adding built-in shelving or cabinetry flanking the fireplace, those get painted or stained during this phase.

Modern fireplace designs often incorporate contrasting colors – perhaps a dark accent wall behind a white mantel, or bold tile against neutral walls. We ensure all these elements work together harmoniously.

🧹 Phase 10: Final Cleanup & Walkthrough

The last step is a thorough cleanup and final walkthrough. We remove all construction debris, vacuum thoroughly, and detail-clean the entire area. Your new fireplace should be ready to enjoy immediately.

During the walkthrough, we:

• Demonstrate any new features (remote controls, gas valves, lighting)
• Provide care and maintenance instructions
• Answer any questions you have
• Ensure you’re completely satisfied with every detail
• Address any final touch-ups if needed

We don’t consider a project complete until you’re absolutely thrilled with the result.

💡 Popular Fireplace Design Trends

Over the years of providing fireplace remodeling services throughout the East Valley, we’ve seen design preferences evolve. Here are some current trends:

Floor-to-Ceiling Designs
Extending the fireplace surround all the way to the ceiling creates dramatic vertical impact. This works especially well in homes with vaulted or high ceilings common in Gilbert and Mesa neighborhoods.

Large-Format Porcelain Slabs
Modern porcelain slabs measuring 4′ x 8′ or even larger create seamless, contemporary looks with minimal grout lines. These can mimic marble, concrete, or unique stone patterns.

Mixed Materials
Combining materials creates visual interest – perhaps stone on the main surround with a contrasting tile hearth, or wood mantel against metal accents.

Floating Mantels
Heavy timber mantels mounted without visible brackets create a clean, modern floating effect that’s increasingly popular in Ahwatukee homes.

Built-In Integration
Surrounding your fireplace with custom built-in shelving, cabinetry, or media centers creates a complete wall feature rather than just a fireplace.

🏠 Common Fireplace Remodel Challenges

Every fireplace remodel comes with its own unique considerations. Here are challenges we commonly encounter and solve:

Dealing with existing brick
Many Arizona homes have 1970s-era brick fireplaces. We can tile directly over brick (if it’s in good condition) or remove it entirely for a fresh start.

Uneven walls
Older homes often have walls that aren’t perfectly flat. We level and true up surfaces before installation to ensure tile sits perfectly.

Structural unknowns
Sometimes opening up a wall reveals surprises – old wiring, unexpected framing, or previous repairs. We handle these professionally without derailing your timeline.

Matching existing architecture
Your fireplace needs to complement your home’s overall style. We guide you toward designs that enhance rather than clash with your existing architecture.

Heat management
Different materials handle heat differently. We ensure all selections are appropriate for their proximity to the firebox and heat output.

🔍 Why Professional Installation Matters

While some homeowners consider DIY fireplace projects, professional installation provides significant advantages:

Safety compliance
Fireplaces involve heat, potentially gas lines, and electrical work. Professional installation ensures everything meets safety standards.

Proper technique
From correct thinset coverage to proper grout joint sizing, professional installers know the techniques that ensure long-term durability.

Efficiency
What might take a homeowner weeks or months, professionals complete in days with better results.

Warranty protection
Professional installation often comes with workmanship warranties. DIY projects offer no such protection.

Problem solving
When unexpected issues arise, experienced contractors know how to solve them quickly and correctly.

🛡️ The Mustache Approved Difference

When you work with Mustache Approved Remodeling for your fireplace project, you get:

• Licensed, insured professionals (ROC# 309760)
• Detailed project planning before work begins
• Clean, organized job sites with dust containment
• Expert craftsmanship on every installation
• Clear communication throughout the process
• Respect for your home and time
• Final results that exceed expectations

We’ve completed fireplace remodels throughout the Phoenix East Valley – from modern transformations in Scottsdale to traditional updates in Tempe, and everywhere in between.

📍 Serving the Entire Phoenix East Valley

Mustache Approved Remodeling proudly provides fireplace remodeling services throughout:

• Scottsdale
• Tempe
• Chandler
• Gilbert
• Mesa
• Ahwatukee

🎯 Ready to Transform Your Fireplace?

Your fireplace should be a stunning focal point that you’re proud to show off. Whether you’re looking to modernize an outdated brick fireplace, create a dramatic floor-to-ceiling feature, or simply refresh your existing surround, we’re here to help.

Learn more about our services:

• Fireplace Remodeling Services
• Kitchen Remodeling Services
• Bathroom Remodeling Services
• View Our Project Gallery
• Remodeling Process FAQs
• Schedule Your Free Consultation

Your dream fireplace starts with the right team – and we’re here to make it Mustache Approved.

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Mustache Approved Remodeling
Licensed General Contractor | ROC# 309760
Serving the Phoenix East Valley

Providing professional fireplace remodeling in Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and Ahwatukee.