The natural, warming appeal of river rock is an easy and beautiful element that homeowners can bring indoors. Although the river rock look is typically seen in camps or cabin-style homes, it can work in many different homes will many different themes. To install a river rock fireplace, you’ll need just a few tools and some basic carpentry skills.

 

natural looking riverbed rocksphoto credit: Keoni Cabral via photopin cc

Step 1: Measure Your Fireplace

The first step is to measure your fireplace. When you go to a landscape rock store, you’ll need to explain to the clerk what the project is. He/she will help you determine how much rock to get for this project.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

After you’ve bought all of the rock, head home and prepare the area. Wash the surface and dry it thoroughly before starting the project.

Step 3: Cut some chicken wire and attach it to the fireplace

Cut some chicken wire to match the dimensions of the fireplace. Attach the wire around the fireplace with a staple gun.

Step 4: Spread motar on chicken wire and set rocks

Next, you’ll want to mix your mortar according to the directions on the bag. Spread a thick layer over the chicken wire. Set the river rocks in place with a firm hand. Hold each rock in place for about a minute. This will allow the mortar to set around the shape of the rock.

 

A fireplace made out of river rocksphoto credit: roger4336 via photopin cc

 

Step 5: Let dry for 12 hours

After you’ve placed all of the rocks, allow everything to dry for at least 12 hours. Be sure you clean up after the project, and continue using your fireplace as normal!

Have you created a rock fireplace below? Got any tips to add? Let us know in the comments below.