Need a new fireplace surround? 10 stone options you should consider before committing

Because of its durability and effortless style, stone is a natural choice for fireplace surrounds. From the timeless beauty of marble to the rustic charm of slate, the material you choose affects not only the aesthetics of the space but also its durability and maintenance.

Ultimately, the best stone for your space will depend on a few factors, including your budget, the look you’re going for, and the maintenance you want to put in.

To help you make an informed decision, we’re explaining the advantages and disadvantages of the ten most popular types of stone for fireplace surrounds. Here’s what you need to know.

marble

If you’re looking for beauty, you can’t go wrong with the luxurious look and feel of marble. This natural stone is a timeless choice, most prized for its veins, which can be seen everywhere. Marble is also known for being highly durable. It can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for wood-burning, gas and electric fireplaces.

However, it is one of the most expensive types of stones fireplace surroundAnd since it is heavy and difficult to install, its installation cost is also not cheap. Additionally, marble is not scratch or stain-resistant and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

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granite

Granite is probably the most popular natural stone for fireplace surrounds. it is More economical than marbleScratch, and stain resistant and available in many colors and patterns. Some granite stones can even mimic the look of marble, making it a great low-cost option.

Granite is an igneous rock (it is formed by volcanic activity), so to say that it can withstand high temperatures would be somewhat of an understatement. While granite is more affordable than high-end options like marble, it is still considered expensive compared to other options.

quartzite

Not to be confused with man-made quartz, quartzite It is a natural stone similar in appearance to marble or granite. It is commonly found in shades of white to brown, although pink and red shades can also be found.

Unlike granite and marble, quartzite holds up well against problems like stains, scratches, and dents, making it a great low-maintenance option. It is also highly heat resistant and can be used for burning wood, gas etc. electric fireplaces,

However, quartzite is a high quality, high cost natural stone like granite and marble. Furthermore, due to its weight, installation is complicated and should always be handled by professionals.

limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock in a range of neutral beige tones. It provides a clean, minimal form Which fits well on many different decor styles. It is known to be tough and durable while also protecting against common problems like dents and scratches. Limestone is more affordable than other natural stone options like marble, quartzite, and granite.

However, this natural stone can be very absorbent and needs to be sealed regularly to prevent stain and moisture problems. Additionally, while limestone can be used safely Gas and electric fireplacesIt should not be used for wood burning fireplaces as it can be damaged by the high heat.

slate

Slate offers a unique look and texture that suits modern and rustic decorating styles. It is usually found in dark brown to black colors, but dark green and earthy red colors are also available.

Apart from its aesthetic appeal, Slate offers practicality Thanks to its natural heat retaining properties. The darker stone will help circulate heat more efficiently, and it retains heat even after the fireplace is turned off, providing a warm and cozy ambiance.

Slate is installed in thin but heavy sheets and requires professional installation. As a result, it is considered a high-end, high-cost material, although it is still more affordable than other options on this list, such as marble.

It’s important to note that slate is sensitive to high temperatures, so this natural stone is best used for gas and electric fireplaces and should be avoided with wood-burning units.

quartz

quartz slab It is man-made using resin and natural quartz ground into small pieces. Because of its durability, quartz is an excellent choice for fireplace surrounds. It is naturally non-porous, which means it is low-maintenance and easy to clean. Since it is man-made, it is also available in countless colors and styles.

However, quartz is not suitable for wood-burning fireplaces because it is sensitive to high temperatures. Additionally, it can fade over time when exposed to regular natural sunlight, and some solvents and chemicals can also damage it.

stacked ledgestone veneer

In lieu of heavy natural stone alternatives, stone dress This is a great low-cost option that requires very little demolition and is relatively easy to install. Ledgestone veneer is a popular choice. It is characterized by thin, horizontally stacked, rectangular stones of brown colour. It is suitable for modern and contemporary spaces but not ideal for more rustic or minimalist styles.

Ledgestone is durable, easy to clean and can be used indoors and outdoors.

There are several benefits to using ledge stone over other types of stone veneers, the biggest of which is that it is dry during installation, so no mortar is required. However, ledge stone veneer must be well sealed to ensure that moisture does not become trapped between and behind the stones.

stacked fieldstone veneer

If you want a more natural looking stone veneer than ledge stone, fieldstone or river stone are suitable choices for you. Fieldstone veneer is characterized by large stones of natural, rustic shape.

As the name suggests, these stones are often sourced from farms or landscapes, giving a really earthy and rustic look. Fieldstone veneers are highly durable, can be used indoors and outdoors, and tolerate extreme heat. Fieldstone veneers must be sealed well, as they are susceptible to moisture problems.

stacked riverstone veneer

Riverstone is another great veneer choice for fireplaces. The biggest difference between fieldstone and riverstone is its appearance. Fieldstones are larger and more organic in shape, while river stones are often smaller and more rounded.

The result is a slightly different aesthetic, with riverstone offering a more uniform look than fieldstone, which can appear a little more rustic. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference.

faux stone veneer

Faux stone veneers around fireplaces are undoubtedly the most economical option. They are lightweight, easy to install, and also suitable for DIY installation. Additionally, faux stone veneers are durable and highly heat resistant, meaning they are safe to use. burning woodElectric, and gas fireplace.

Despite these benefits, some homeowners prefer natural stone in their spaces. This is one of the drawbacks of choosing fake stone. However, from an aesthetic point of view, it can be challenging to distinguish between high quality imitation stone veneer and natural stone veneer. Ultimately, the choice will depend on personal preference and what you are willing to spend on your fireplace surround.