Before & after: Many North Andover colonial style homes built in the 1980’s have wood burning fireplaces. A long time ago in a galaxy far far away, called the 1990′s, 12″x 12″ black onyx marble tiles we’re trendy. No, I don’t get it either. You can see the original brick that the tiles are covering up. There was a point in time, which I can’t understand, that brick was seen as dated and unappealing. I happen to think it is timeless. Oh well, time for a change.
Let’s check out the before and after!
Hammer and chisels do nicely in removing the tile and mastic. Some areas are harder than others. It’s messy and dirty. Wear gloves. The shards of marble are sharp. Really sharp.. wear safety glasses as well.
In some places the tile and mastic come off so easily that there is hope of saving the original brick facade. That hope fades as large chunks of brick start falling off with the more difficult areas.
After: Resurfaced with small marble subway tiles on the surround and 6″x 6″ marble tiles on the hearth. The fireplace box was painted with high heat black paint. Finished.
