Introduction

Once the seasons begin to turn and winter approaches, we often find ourselves thinking of sitting next to a crackling fireplace sipping on some warm cocoa. The fireplace will always feel like the heart of the house - not only providing warmth, but serenity and comfort. During this time of transition, we might be thinking we would love to spruce up our fireplace - but how? The traditional brick or stone surround may be what first comes to your mind, but did you know that you can actually tile a fireplace? Considering its importance, there's no reason why you shouldn't elevate function to form and make it a unique statement piece in your home.

This CALACATTA GOLD slab fireplace is a timeless and beautiful addition to the living room. (Contact us to order)

Let's start off with why tile is a great material for decorating your fireplace.

1) Is it safe to use tile on a fireplace? Throughout its creation process, tile endures temperatures far greater than your fireplace will ever reach. The finished product is a beautiful, durable material that can withstand temperatures up to 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit. You can rest assured that your tile will be safe around a fireplace.

2) Do fireplace tiles give off fumes? Tile is made from organic material and is formaldehyde- and VOC- (volatile organic compound) free. This means the tile won't give off any harsh chemicals when you turn your fireplace on. Safe for pets and the whole family!

3) Why should I tile my fireplace? You can add so much tone, texture, and feel into your living space with just the small touch of a vibrant tile. Think of making your fireplace a work of art!

 4) Can stone tile go on a fireplace too? The answer is yes! Stone fireplaces have been around for ages, not only for style but also because stone lasts for decades and will add extra value to your home.

 CARVED Nero creates a bold statement piece in this living room.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Fireplace

A fireplace consists of several key components, each with its own function and design considerations:

• Surround: The wall space around the fireplace is perfect for tiling to add personality to your room. This is the most commonly tiled piece of the fireplace. Browse tile most commonly used for fireplace surrounds.
• Mantel: Traditionally functional, now more decorative, it's a great area for tiling as an accent piece.
• Hearth: The horizontal material directly in front of the firebox. This should be made of a material that is suitable to protect the floor from embers, sparks, and other hot debris - and tile is a great option here.
• Firebox: The place where the fire burns. While not suitable for all tile types, certain materials can be used here.

Designing Your Fireplace with Tiles

• Mantel Design: Choose to have a mantel for a traditional look or remove it for a modern, seamless tile design from floor to ceiling.
• Tile Variety: From small mosaics to large slabs, the pattern and size of your tiles can dramatically change the fireplace's appearance.
• Color and Texture: Use the tone and texture of tiles to add depth and character to your living space.

Installation Considerations for Fireplace Tiles

• Layout Planning: It's crucial to plan your tile layout before installation, especially with natural stone or handmade products. If you are installing natural stone or a handmade product, variations are to be expected with veining, color, glaze saturation… even in size! This is a great time to look through the tile, shift the tiles around for even placement of color and veining. At the end of the day, YOU are the one living with the finished result, not your installer, and you need to be the one in love with the final result.
• Corner Details: Discuss how to handle corners with tile trim pieces or mitered edges for a polished finish. Some collections offer tile trim pieces for the edges in either ceramic, porcelain, glass or stone. If there are none available, or if you prefer a simple streamlined look over tile trim, discuss the use of Schluter Profiles.

CALACATTA GOLD slabs create a timeless and clean look, and can be replicated by porcelain slabs. (Contact us to order)

Enhancing Fireplace Aesthetics with Tiles

• Creating a Focal Point: A well-tiled fireplace can become the centerpiece of your room. Whether you opt for bold patterns or subtle hues, the right tile can elevate the entire ambiance of your space.
• Texture and Pattern Play: Experiment with different textures and patterns to create a unique look. Mix and match tiles to reflect your personal style or to complement the room's decor.
• Seasonal Themes: Consider seasonal themes in your tile selection. Warm tones for autumn, cool hues for winter, or vibrant patterns for spring and summer can add a dynamic element to your living space.

Expert Tips for Tiling Your Fireplace

• Consult Professionals: Seek advice from our knowledgeable staff at Architessa to ensure you choose the best tile for your fireplace project.
• Maintenance and Care: Understand the maintenance requirements of your chosen tiles. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are low-maintenance, while natural stone may require more care.
• Future-Proofing Your Design: Consider how your tile choice will age over time and how it fits with potential future changes in your home's decor.

Featuring Limestone Moca Cream Honed Slabs (Contact us to order)

The Art of Choosing the Right Tile for Your Fireplace

What tile can go on my fireplace? Selecting the perfect tile for your fireplace involves considering several factors:

• Heat Resistance: Ensure the tile can withstand the heat generated by the fireplace. Natural stone tile, porcelain tile, ceramic tile, and glass tile are all great options here.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The tile should complement the overall style of your room and house.
• Durability: Choose a tile that is durable and easy to clean, especially if you use your fireplace frequently. Porcelain tile is the pinnacle of durability, but ceramic tile is another high-strength low-maintenance tile that is great for fireplaces.

Fireplace Tile Trends and Inspirations

Stay updated with the latest trends in fireplace tiling:

• Geometric Patterns: Geometric tiles can add a modern twist to your fireplace.
• Handmade Tiles: For a more traditional or rustic look, consider handmade-look or hand-painted tiles with unique designs. Our Lauren Leiss HABITAT collection is always a great choice here.
• Metallic Finishes: Tiles with metallic finishes can add a touch of luxury and sophistication. P.S. metallic tiles are often within collections with other coordinating non-metallic colors, so don't forget to explore the other colors.

See our Pinterest board for design inspiration for your next project.

  

The Role of Grout in Fireplace Tiling

Grout plays a crucial role in the appearance and durability of your tiled fireplace:

• Color Selection: Choose a grout color that complements or contrasts with your tiles to create the desired effect.
• Grout Quality: High-quality grout can withstand heat and prevent damage over time. Not all grout is created equally - shop high quality Laticrete grout for the best outcome.

Read our Expert Guide on Grout to learn more about this crucial part of any tile installation.

 

 3x9 CALACATTA GOLD marble tile makes for a sleek and timeless fireplace

 

Fireplace Tiling: A DIY Project or a Job for Professionals?

Decide whether to DIY or hire a professional based on your skill level and the complexity of the project. While DIY can be rewarding, professional installation ensures a flawless finish and adherence to safety standards. Regardless of which route you decide to take - our sales team are professional designers and will give you expert guidance to picking the right tile, and can connect you with our network of trusted installers. Request an Appointment or Contact Us to learn more and get started tiling your own fireplace.

 

Revamping your fireplace with tiles from Architessa can transform it into a stunning focal point. With a variety of materials and designs to choose from, you can create a fireplace that not only provides warmth but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your home. Visit Architessa for expert advice and a wide selection of tiles to begin your fireplace transformation journey.

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Austin Meyer brings a background in professional real-estate photography, graphic design, and copywriting to the table. As marketing specialist, he manages blogs, email marketing, photography, video editing. copywriting, SEO, and website design, amongst other things. Austin has both an eye for the big picture and little details, and wields creativity and positivity in everything he does.