Dear James: It’s a mess carrying firewood indoors, so I want to modernize my old brick fireplace with one that uses gas logs. Are there any tips on how to do this project myself? — Kathy H. Dear Kathy ...

Measure the area for the surround and the fireplace dimensions. Determine the exact top of the fireplace, because you’ll be setting a support slab across both sides of the surround to complete it. Dry ...

Dear Gary: A concrete surround can be installed on any fireplace. Concrete is one of the best materials to use for a fireplace surround. It is very durable, attractive and nonflammable. The design ...

Sage advice from a seasoned carpenter. In the finish carpentry world, fireplace mantels are often the aesthetic showpiece of a room. People use mantels to display family photos, treasured artworks, ...