One Really Cool Way We Used Concrete to Finish A Fireplace

I really love the many ways concrete is now being used.  From counter tops and tabletops to light fixtures (yes, I said light fixtures) and decorative floors.

I'm always surprised and totally inspired by the creative uses people come up with for such a common product.  I've added a new postcard to my Cheat Sheet Postcard Series, a collection of postcards to collect and reference on a variety of topics.   For your free Subscription to the series, click here:  10 Ways to Decorate Your Home with Concrete.

We had done quite a few concrete projects around the house but this is the first project I've done inside. It's messy, so lots of prep-work is involved, but well worth the effort. You can personalize it and get as creative as you want.

We built this house a couple years ago (the Spec House) adding a concrete hearth and mantle with a carved vertical concrete fireplace surround, very fun project!


First things first, the area getting vertical concrete needs metal lath installed and then a scratch-coat.  I oversaw and let the boys do most of that.  They learned a lot on this project.  One will probably attempt to do much of his own home repairs.  The other learned how much he hates physical labor and will probably hire everything out.

Ready with the scratch-coat.  Now, it's time to go.  I probably could have done the entire fireplace in one day but I chose to break it up.  I did the bottom half on day 1.  This is a product called Tru-pac that you mix with a 60lb. bag of mortar and throw onto the wall.  Literally.  Then, you smooth it out with a trowel, stamp it to your liking and carve it into whatever design you want.

Next day, upper half.

Here's a few close-up's.

When you carve lots of releasing agent is involved and it needs to be cleaned off before staining/sealing, that's a fun process inside. Outside you simple power spray it- so easy. Inside involves spray bottles and a wet vac.  Fun, fun!

Here it is all stained.  Have some touch-ups to do (look at the ceiling) but lookin' good!

Have you done any creative work with concrete?  

My love affair with concrete prompted me to add a new postcard to my Cheat Sheet Postcard Series, a collection of postcards to collect and reference on a variety of topics.   For your free Subscription to the series, click here:  10 Ways to Decorate Your Home with Concrete.