Updating Your Fireplace Surround (VIDEO)

If you have ever looked at your fireplace surround, and said "... Eh," there are things you can do to remedy the situation.

If you have exposed brick, you can paint the brick; just use a roller with a thick nap to make sure you get in in all the nooks and crevices.

Change the mantle. From an old wood beam, to an inexpensive piece of new wood, changing out or even adding a mantle can make a dramatic change.

Cover the brick with drywall. By attaching 2 x 4's with concrete screws and adhesive to the brick 16 inches on center, you can apply drywall and cover the entire brickwork. Be sure to check local building codes.

Brick veneer. 1-inch thick, brick faced "tiles" can be applied like standard tiles to recreate the look of a different type of brick.

For more inspiration, check out my video on "Fireplace Inspiration":

Licensed home improvement contractor Brian Kelsey can be seen and heard regularly giving out advice on an array of media outlets. Hear him co-hosting a daily 4 hour radio talk show, live and nationwide from 7a-11a eastern on "Martha Stewart Living Radio" on SiriusXm Satellite Radio. Watch him on tv and on his how-to video series "Kelsey On The House." Connect on Facebook and Twitter!