We are buying a house with an exisitng rock wall fireplace that needs updating. Here are some pictures. Husband does not like rock wants to paint. I just want to take rock off and start over.

Do I take down and start over or plaster over existing surfac? Mantel needs updating and existing rough sawn cedar is embedded in rock. So when it's removed there will be gaps.

Question, it's seems like rock is not that deep and a veneer almost over drywall. That would be easier to remove? or is it hard. Thanks!

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Here are some details:

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I'd like to install a continous beefy mantel, with cultured stone below and finished plaster above.