I would like to drywall over the top half of my natural brick fireplace to update the look of the house.
Can I use standard drywall, or do I need a cement board?
Also, do I need to use 2x2 strips to secure to brick, then drywall to 2x2's or can I attach directly to the brick wall?
Are their any known safety concerns?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I would like to drywall over the top half of my natural brick fireplace to update the look of the house.
Can I use standard drywall, or do I need a cement board?
Also, do I need to use 2x2 strips to secure to brick, then drywall to 2x2's or can I attach directly to the brick wall?
Are their any known saftey concerns?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
use furring strips, 1x3. No problem.

Stew

you can use a general construction adhesive like pl-400 ,and omit the 1x's if no room for the furring strips. Also I recommend using a 'paperless' drywall if with-in 8'' of the hot box.

When you attach your furring strips you should not use cut nails or masonary nails. They will likely split the furring and shatter the brick. Try drilling into the mortar lines with a carbide drill and use lead anchors shimmin the strips where needed. When you install your drywall be sure to use drywall screws that are short enough to not reach the brick face.

A few more facts about this fireplace. First, the drywall would be at 20" from the opening of the fireplace (the wood mantle would sit below the drywall). I really like the idea of using a construction adhesive (ie PL400) as I can cut the drywall to size and install with a lot of mudding.

How strong is the construction adhesive? Could I have a mirror or picture hang from the drywall if I drill an anchor past the drywall and into th brick?

If it were me I would use furring strips, especially for hanging things.

If you use furring strips there will be less hassle should the drywall need to be removed.