Flooring Tile - Tiles on fireplace

I have a 'standard' red brick fireplace that needs a facelift... possibly with smaller square tiles, similiar to a counter top. I am thinking of covering the outside with cement board, and adhearing tiles to the board. The current bricks warm up quite a bit as the fire goes, so I am concerned that the tiles will not stick.

Do I have a crazy idea that won't work, or is there a way to stick some tiles to the outside of the fireplace?

Thanks for any help.

You have a great idea. Fireplace face lifts are very common. Your biggest problem is making sure the brickwork is level, plumb, square and flat. I suggest you use a large format floor tile for the application and stay away from the small tiles for a fireplace. The look is dramatic when done properly. You should be able to go over the brick with the tile using a premium grade thinset. I don't think I would use a backer board. As for the heating up issue, I don't think that should be much of a problem unless you heat it up during the installation or it heats up to a temp that causes combustion and then tile over the brick would be the least of your worries. Make sure you allow the installatioon to cure properly before you use the fireplace again. Good luck.

I Agree-- Bigger tiles would look better but you could use 1" x 1 " if you want to.

No backer board. Only use thinset mortar not mastic.

Consider buying a 3 or 4 piece marble or granite surround kit-- they are beautiful.. 3 pc gives you 2 legs and a header,, 4 pc also gives you a hearth.