There are many benefits to installing a fireplace tile surround. These include durability, heat resistance, and decorative options.
A fresh fireplace tile makeover can transform a date-night cliche into a stylish entertainment spot ready to impress. It’s an economical home improvement project and easy to do on your own or with a professional.
Durability
Tile is one of the most popular materials to use around a fireplace. It can be a good choice because it is durable, can stand up to high temperatures, and comes in various colors, patterns, and textures.
It’s also easy to clean. You can regularly wipe down a fireplace tile surround with a damp cloth and soapy water to keep it looking great.
A fireplace tile surround can be an excellent focal point in any home. It can add a lot of character to the room and make it more relaxing.
To create a stunning effect, you can use a variety of tiles. These are available in different sizes and can be arranged in horizontal, offset, herringbone, or chevron patterns.
Another great way to create a unique look is with 3D tiles. These are especially popular for backsplashes, but they can also enhance the face of a fireplace.
These tiles, like fireplace tile surround, come in various designs and are made to mimic the look of wood, stone, brick, and slate. They also come in a wide range of colors and can be custom designed to fit your home’s decor.
Consider travertine if you are looking for a durable tile that can withstand high heat. This stone is a natural material that is highly resistant to high temperatures and will not crack or chip. It’s also very affordable and will look beautiful in any home.
Heat Resistance
A fireplace tile surround can add a touch of warmth and sophistication to your home while also being durable enough to withstand a lot of wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for many homes with older or historic structures.
When choosing a tile for your fireplace surround, it’s essential to consider what material you want it to be made of. Different tile materials provide different levels of heat resistance.
Porcelain tiles are often famous for a fireplace surround because they offer excellent durability and heat resistance. These tiles are also easy to maintain and come in various colors and styles.
Ceramic is another common choice for a fireplace tile surround because it offers the same durability and heat resistance as porcelain. It can also be custom designed to mimic the look of other tile types, such as marble.
Glass is an additional option for a fireplace tile surround because it can add a sleek, modern touch to the design. It can also reflect the firelight, enhancing its ambiance.
Granite is another option for a fireplace tile surround because it offers both durability and heat resistance. It is also scratch-proof and comes in a variety of colors.
Before installing a fireplace tile surround, following specific installation techniques and meeting building codes in your area is crucial. It’s also best to choose a heat-resistant adhesive and grout. Standard tile adhesives aren’t formulated to handle the kind of temperature that a fireplace can reach, and they will crumble and fail under intense heat strain.
Decorative
Besides being durable and functional, a fireplace tile surround is a decorative element that can elevate the style of your entire home. Whether you prefer traditional, contemporary, or rustic, there is a tile that will suit your style.
For example, slate tiles are available in various colors and finish to meet your decorating preferences. These natural stone tiles are durable and easy to maintain.
Ceramic tiles are also famous for their affordability and range of color options. They are also great for covering a small fireplace area or can be used to cover an entire accent wall.
Glass and metallic tiles are also attractive for the fireplace surround as they have a romantic look with their light-reflecting qualities. They are also durable and can withstand high temperatures.
Porcelain is another excellent choice for the surround and hearth as it is dense and highly durable. It is available in a wide range of color and design options and comes with a PEI rating, which means it’s durable enough for the firebox.
Art tile can also be fun to incorporate your personality into the fireplace surround and make it an appealing focal point for your home. For instance, add a few hand-painted tiles that highlight your favorite hobby or interest, such as a beach scene painting or your favorite flower. You can then spread these art tiles evenly between more plain fireplace tiles.
Easy to Clean
A fireplace can be a dramatic focal point in a living room. It can also set the mood and give your home a cozy and welcoming feel. It’s essential to clean and maintain your fireplace and chimney regularly to ensure it is safe.
A tile surround can be very easy to clean. To begin with, you should thoroughly vacuum and sweep up any dirt or debris accumulated on the hearth and surrounding tile. Then, you can wipe down the tiles with a soapy water solution and a soft cloth.
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, smoke residue can quickly build up on the hearth and surround. This can cause difficulty removing stains, especially on marble and other stone fireplace surrounds.
Smoke stains can be removed with a cleaning solution that contains dish soap (like Dawn). Just dip a soft brush into the solution and scrub the spots.
Soot stains can also be removed with a simple cleaner. Squirt a solution of 1/4 cup all-purpose cleaner into 1 gallon of water; give the stained areas a quick scrubbing; rinse with clean water; let dry.
If your marble or brick fireplace facing has a dark stain, you may need to use a natural stone sealer to prevent it from reappearing. Efflorescence, a fuzzy substance that forms when water evaporates from fireplace tiles, can be cleaned with baking soda and water.
