Adding slate tiles over a brick fireplace? I have a fireplace that is made up of valid bricks (not...

I have a fireplace that is made up of valid bricks (not just a facade). These are painted over white. I would like to cover up adjectives these bricks with a slate tile. A couple of questions contained by this regard:

a) Do I have to remove the paint over the bricks to do this and, if so, how?

b) Do I inevitability to cover up the gaps between the bricks or just make the addition of mortar directly and add the tiles?

Any information would be much appreciated.

Thanks in mortgage
Answers:    a. no, I wouldn't remove the paint before I put the slate tiles up. However, it would be beneficial to how they stuck, if you took some kind of a telecommunication wheel and cut off helm and went over the paint. This will allow for the thin set mortar to stick. When you do the cut bad wheel, use it flat against the surface. If you can put it on the end of a drill and use it resembling you're buffing a car.

b. I would just make the addition of mortar directly and add the tiles. Have a good plan. My wife did our fireplace. She did a wonderful charge. The ends had to be cut really short though and it would have be better if they had been thought out a short time better, because its easier to cut 4 inch pieces on the saw rather an inch pieces. All in adjectives our job was fine. I still admire her work.
Removing the paint is the best way to guarantee a devout bond.If the paint is bonded soundly to the brick, and doesn't have a gloss finish, consequently I would just rough it up with coarse sandpaper to modernize adhesion. If the bricks are flat, then apply your tiles with thin-set mortar.If they are not flat, consequently apply a scratch coat of brick mortar, 1/8" inch thick over entire surface man careful to keep it as flat as possible.This will flood in the brick joints. After sufficient drying time, at most minuscule 24 hrs, apply your tile with thin set mortar.
Be aware, this is an over simplification of this application. If you enjoy never worked with mason materials before, you might want to consider calling a professional.