Tile is no longer relegated to just kitchens and baths. Tile is used in all sorts of applications around the home, and one of its most dramatic uses is giving new life to an old fireplace, particularly covering up older, brick fireplaces.
Tile materials
Nearly any type of tile can be used on a fireplace surround as long as it is installed properly. Tile is an inflammable material so it can endure high temperatures without becoming a hazard to your home. Because of this, it serves as a great fireproof barrier, helping to reduce the risk of any accidental fires or fire damage.
Ceramic tile
Ceramic tile is made from a mixture of natural clay, sand, water, and sometimes feldspar or quartz. This is an extremely popular material and classic choice for a fireplace surround.
Porcelain tile
Porcelain tile, technically a subtype of ceramic tile, is also made from a mixture of natural clay, sand, water, and sometimes feldspar or quartz. It is denser and more durable than non-porcelain ceramic tile. Porcelain tile is fired at a higher temperature, giving it a slightly different look than ceramic tile.
Stone tile
Stone tiles include marble, onyx, granite, slate, or terra-cotta. These are timeless materials that give a natural look to your fireplace. You can also choose to use stone tiles that are pitted, such as travertine, or stones with rough or chiseled edges. These tiles give more of an aged or antique feel to your fireplace.
Glass tile
Glass tiles reflect light, which is why homeowners love them. They can make an eye-popping fireplace surround, although they may not be an ideal choice to go on the floor in front of your fireplace. Glass tile is a little more delicate, prone to chipping or cracking under heavy foot traffic.
Tile shapes and patterns
A multitude of tile shapes and patterns exist, giving you a wide selection of choices to create your ideal fireplace surround.
Rectangular tile
Rectangular subway tile is a common shape that has stood the test of time. Rectangular subway tiles can be arranged in patterns such as brick, straight stack, basketweave, or vertical. Rectangular tiles with a parallelogram cut also are popular to create herringbone or diamond patterns.
Square tile
Square tiles are simple and beautiful. Square tiles can be arranged in a straight stack or offset pattern. Square tiles also can be set on a 45-degree angle, allowing the creation of a harlequin pattern.
Penny round tile
Penny round tiles are small, rounded tiles usually installed on a sheet. Their small size and bold, graphic designs allow them to create a stunning look on a fireplace surround.
Plank tile
Plank tiles are rectangular but longer than traditional rectangular tiles. Generally, plank tiles are 24, 36, or 48 inches in length. They look more like a plank of wood in their shape, though not necessarily in their finish. Plank tiles work well in horizontal, offset, herringbone, and chevron patterns.
Specialty tile
Specialty tile includes tiles cut in shapes like diamonds, triangles, fan or fish scales, arabesque cuts, ogees, and much more. Specialty tiles are more expensive, so use them to create a dramatic accent if you can’t afford to tile your entire fireplace with them.
Tile sizes
Tile sizes for each shape widely vary. Using larger tiles means fewer grout lines. Some homeowners prefer this look. Other homeowners feel like the large tiles are out-of-proportion if the fireplace surround is smaller in size. There is no right or wrong answer, so it’s best to bring home some sample tiles to make sure you are happy with the final look.
Get expert advice
Whatever tile you end up deciding on, fireplaces are a natural focal point for any room. A fireplace facelift can make a bold statement in your remodeling efforts, without breaking the bank.
A fireplace can make a great addition to your bathroom, creating a sanctuary-like space. With all the options available, it can be difficult to figure out what is right for your home. Visit our showrooms for inspiration and talk to one of our project managers so they can help you create an eye-catching fireplace.
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