Tiling around fireplace question (pool, install, stainless steel, tile)

[Tab Judice]

What do I use to install tile on combination of sheet rock and the metal on the fireplace. It's a heat-i-later??? that i'm not using anymore and want to tile over the louvered areas

[Cornerguy1]

Normally one would install cement board as a backer and then install your tiles using a thin set mortar.

However, if your sheetrock is solid, you could also set set tiles directly using polyurethane construction adhesive and then grout as normal.

[K'ledgeBldr]

Originally Posted by Tab Judice

...tile over the louvered areas

Louvered areas are there for a reason- tiling over them is probably NOT a good idea! Used or not. What happens when you sell?

[akck]

In dry locations, you can tile directly to drywall, assuming it's stable. You can use thinset, that pre-mixed "thinset" in a bucket or any other adhesive.

[Streamer1212]

Cut a piece of stainless steel or some other magnetically appropriate sheet metal to fit over the area you want to tile. Bond the tile to the steel with the construction adhesive/poly adhesive. Affix 4 strong magnets (approx. 2" x 2") to the back of the stainless panel, and attach the tiled panel to the metal that you want to cover. Now grout the tile (or caulk the joints if you wish).

This is how we make access panels on whirlpool tubs so if the pump needs attention/repair, we can remove the panel and get to it, then replace the panel.

You cover up the louvers. New home buyers can re-expose them if they want to.

Win-Win deal.

Regards,
Streamer1212