Any one install a marble fireplace surround?

I see tons of these on ebay, shipped from china, and they look gorgeous.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Olde-World-Design-Marble-Fireplace-Mantel-Surround-/380290519301?pt=Architectural_Garden&hash=item588b14d105

How hard is this to install?

Anyone have something similar?

Seems like huge bang for the buck....

 

I would say if the marble look goes with your overall theme of design inside and outside they are cool.

 

I prefer these.........
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

We had the "Laurent" design on this page installed at our living room fireplace during 2009 remodeling. It's cast stone, which is heavy and prone to chipping at the edges. Handling and installation took six guys, turned out really nice.

http://www.oldworldstoneworks.com/mantels.html

Floor and hearth level, walls plumb, and fireplace structure around opening reasonably flush with wall face: no brainer.

Structure underlying bearing areas should be OK if on well-built slab, should be checked if on pier and beam. Reinforce as prudent, definitely if floor joists run parallel to fireplace wall and/or bearing areas have no other support than floor and subfloor. It's a static load but that much marble is heavy.

Don't try to save money on installation labor. Hire the best, period.

Aesthetically and craftsmanship-wise, looks pretty decent from what I can see in the photo. Not up to the standards of European-made products, but a similar material and design from one of those makers would start at $10K.

 

I grew up in the stone business and I will be in it for life. You get what you pay for.

If you are anywhere near Plover WI, or Morris IL, I can recommend a reputable stone company to help you out.

The stuff from china is what it is, pre fabricated, often sub-standard. You're better off spending a little bit more for a custom surround, templated for your home.