Nowadays it is quite possible to tile over the old tile and avoid the time and money of cleanup and backerboard installation.
Can you tile over tile fireplace.
The average do it yourself homeowner can cover their old tile fireplace surround with new tile in one to two days depending on the size and scope of the project.
Each time you cut a piece of tile take it over to fireplace and hold it up to make sure it fits.
Nail a straight 1x board horizontally across the fireplace in line with the top of the firebox and use its top edge as a shelf as you set the tiles.
The board also prevents the tiles from slipping before the adhesive cures.
Tile is not recommended for applications that will exceed 175 f 80 c so it s not an option for the firebox.
The row of tiles directly above the firebox is visually the most important so it should be absolutely straight.
You can tile directly over your current marble fireplace surround.
The firebox is where the actual fire will be and it must be lined with the appropriate materials that will meet building codes.
Smooth the tile down with your hand.
The firebox the surround and the hearth.
Then if you use the proper mastic the tiles should stick.
One strategy is to clean the marble with tsp and water then sand it with coarse sandpaper to etch it.
Then take that piece and hold it up to the previous piece you cut to make sure it is the same width length whichever is applicable.
My tile fireplace has a little space between the mantel and the tile so i was able to stick part of it behind the mantel to start.
How to tile with before and after pictures of a fireplace surround makeover.