Stone is a lovely natural product that is quarried and has been used for fire surrounds for centuries. Stone fireplace have unique characteristics of random pattern and texture. The material surface is usually matt in texture and very resistant to high temperatures. Stone’s unique properties makes it an ideal material to use in fire surrounds.

Stone Fireplace surrounds the 2 types :

(1)    Solid Stone (either Sandstone, Granite, Marble or Limestone )

(2)    Pre-Fabricated casts from reconstituted stone

When fitted, it is virtually impossible to differentiate the difference between a solid stone fireplace and a pre-fabricated cast stone fireplace. There are obviously different spectrums of quality within pre-fabricated stone, and the higher grade products (most common) are lovely to look at. The same applies for micro marble fireplaces, which are virtually identical to natural stone marble fireplaces.

The main differences between solid stone fireplaces and pre-fabricated / conglomerates

1. Stone fireplaces are made from large sections of solid material, and can hence be carved for this reason. Pre-fabricated cast stone fireplaces are frequently cast in a mould and are hence much lighter in weight. However there are several firms which manufacture pre-fabricated (artificial) stone slabs which are used for fire surrounds. When such slabs are used the entire fire surround is manufactured in the same thickness as a conventional stone fireplace.

Micro marble and natural marble fire surrounds are both manufactured from 20mm sheets of marble, and both products are identical for this reason visually.

Limestone fireplaces must be 100% natural there is no reconstituted stone technology available to replicate the unique texture found in this natural stone.

2. Natural stone fireplaces have unique grain and colouration not obtainable in cast product. However, it is important to note that micro marble has unique random patterning, and many consumers will not be able to differentiate it from its 100% natural alternative.

3. Reconstituted and Pre-fabricated cast stone fireplaces are cheaper by approximately 30% or higher.

4. As Reconstituted and Pre-fabricated cast stone tends to be lighter than 100% natural products, it is not suitable for solid fuel/ open fires (burning coal and logs). Essentially all reconstituted stone is bonded together with some derivative of resin which is not heat resistant.

5. It is often not possible to carve reconstituted stone, and hence solid stone fireplaces are available in unique designs that are not available in pre-fabricated alternatives.

Conclusion

If you want to add value to your home, investing in either a solid stone fireplace or a reconstituted and pre-fabricated is a wise decision. Solid 100% natural fireplaces have not been proven to increase property value more than any reconstituted alternative of the same quality, and hence the decision steams down to personal preferences.

Stone fireplace mantles are available in various shapes and sizes. The majority of stone fireplaces tend to be manufactured 54 inches or 60 inches wide, however virtually any size imaginable can be manufactured. Stone fireplaces are often made from thick slabs of stone and can hence be carved (please see image below), however more contemporary/chic designs are also possible.

What you should considerations prior to purchasing stone fireplace mantles

1. Stone fireplace mantles are porous, and may not be appropriate families with young children. Marble fireplaces on the other hand are much more resilient to stains, and may be more appropriate.
2. Stone fireplace mantles can either be manufactured in Natural stone (such as Limestone) or in reconstituted stone (manufactured from resin modes). Reconstituted stone fireplaces tend to cost the same price as natural stone; both products are of similar quality.
3. Stone fireplace mantles are often very heavy as they are manufactured from large thick slabs, and your floor may need to be reinforced to accommodate the weight.
4. Stone fireplaces tend to be very brittle, and easy to chip (despite what many people think). We strongly recommend stone fireplaces should be installed by experienced installers.

Natural stone fireplaces have been used for centuries and used in traditional homes as a source of heat. Even with the introduction central heating and electric fireplaces, these natural stone fireplaces are still incredibly popular.

Stone is a natural material that is naturally resilient to high temperatures making it an ideal material to use for solid fuel fireplaces (burning coal or logs). As there is less direct heat created gas fireplaces and electric fireplaces do not necessarily need to be manufactured out of stone, however many homeowners are drawn to the aesthetical appeal of natural stone fireplaces.

Stone fireplaces are usually made in sections and can weigh in excess of 23 stone (250 kgs), and may require two or more people when handling. Ideally prior to installation all walls and floors should be checked to ensure they are level, as uneven surfaces are difficult to deal with once the installation process has begun. We strongly recommend using a industrial sealer on all stone fireplaces regularly if they are used with solid fuel appliances. All stone is naturally porous, which means the surface of the fireplace is unfortunately prone to and able to absorb fluids easily. This often leads to stains within the grain of the stone that are difficult (if not impossible) to remove once they have occurred. The simplest care needed is preventive care, by ensuring the stone surface is sealed on a regular basis.  Marble fireplaces are a polished surface and are much less porous, and not very prone to staining. However marble fireplaces are not as heat resistant and would not be suitable for use with solid fuel (unless they are specially treated).