So, I have an ugly brick fireplace that I'd like to "enhance":

http://www.malch.com/nikon/DSD_2769.jpg

Sadly, the budget is very limited. So, I'm thinking in terms
of a granite (or similar) tile.

I understand it is feasible to tile over the brick. However,
my gut feel suggests it would be better to remove the bricks
first, install a new cementboard backer, and tile over that.

I would maybe add a ready made (wood) shelf mantel.

Any thoughts on those approaches? Other suggestions welcome.

I'm also a little nervous about running into a whole slew
of (expensive) code issues (I'm in CA). Is that likely to
derail the whole project?

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| Malcolm Hoar "The more I practice, the luckier I get". |
| Gary Player. |
| http://www.malch.com/ Shpx gur PQN. |
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