Help on Tele2, tariffs, questions

Natural fireplace, made of fireclay and solid ceramic bricks, made by molding. The appearance of such a portal leaves much to be desired. The fireplace needs to be lined with artificial and natural stone. There are general rules and recommendations related to the selection and installation of finishing materials.

What stone is used for facing a fireplace?

The outer walls of the fireplace are not subject to the same thermal load as the inner surface of the hearth. The heating temperature, as a rule, does not exceed 80°C. Therefore, the stone for facing the fireplace should not be heat resistant.

The following requirements apply to the material:

1. Beautiful appearance.
2. Color spectrum.
3. Weight restrictions.
4. Ease of installation and subsequent operation.

For cladding, natural and fake diamond. Each option has its own strengths and certain disadvantages that you should be aware of before choosing a finishing material.

Types of artificial stone

The term “artificial stone” refers to a whole group of finishing materials. The composition includes fine stone chips, polyester resins and other fillers.

Budget versions of artificial stone for facing a fireplace are made from colored concrete or gypsum. In appearance, the material is almost identical to natural stone.

Artificial facing stone for a fireplace has the following characteristics and features:

• Heat resistance.
• Beautiful appearance.
• Cheapness.
• Easy to install.
• Light weight.

This is where the advantages of fireplaces lined with artificial stone end. It's time to move on to the disadvantages:

• Susceptibility of the material to mechanical damage. Any accidental impact will damage the surface, which is especially important to consider when laying and subsequently firing the fireplace.
• Inconvenience during operation - the uneven structure of the material is difficult to clean. Judging by the reviews, dirt and soot get clogged into the pores of the material. To avoid problems when decorating a fireplace with artificial stone, its surface is immediately coated with a special heat-resistant varnish.

Fireplaces lined with artificial stone are cheaper, approximately 70%, taking into account the cost of paying for the services of a mason. Work gets done faster. This option is indispensable when cladding structures in rooms with restrictions regarding the load on the floor.

Types of natural stone

Natural stone for facing a fireplace is best option finishing: characterized by beautiful appearance and long service life. Suitable for decorating a fireplace the following types natural stone:

• Marble – ready-made portals and facing slabs are offered. Cladding a fireplace with marble is one of the most labor-intensive processes. For marble tiles, a special adhesive is produced with high adhesion and adhesive strength to the surface.
  Before laying, the surface of the brick is treated with a primer, which includes marble or granite chips. The thickness of the marble does not exceed 1 cm. Compliance with the proportion is necessary to reduce the load on brickwork.

  

• Granite is a noble material. Manufacturers offer ready-made portals and tiles with patterns and inclusions, as well as in the traditional black color. Finishing with granite, like marble, requires a highly qualified craftsman. Doing the work yourself is not recommended.
  Granite and marble are almost eternal materials: wear-resistant, maintaining a beautiful appearance and strength throughout the entire period of operation.

  

• Slate is a stone in the form of slabs and cobblestones. Slate finishing is popular due to the strength of the stone, its long service life and beautiful colors.

  

• Shell rock is a porous stone with beautiful texture. Disadvantage: susceptibility to mechanical damage. Decorative inserts are mainly made from shell rock. Soot quickly accumulates on the surface. After facing, the stone requires mandatory treatment with protective compounds.

  

• Rubble stone is actually a cobblestone used for cladding facades, fences and expensive construction. Rubble stone is used to line fireplace portals longer than with any other material. Among analogues, it is relatively inexpensive, and with high-quality cladding, it creates a unique pattern.

  

• Limestone – common name combines several varieties natural stone. The advantage of the breed is that it is easy to process due to its soft structure. Limestone cladding is made using both broken pieces and specially made tiles.

  

• Onyx is a mineral considered a semi-precious stone. Elite fireplaces are lined with onyx. The advantage of the stone is that it is able to transmit light through itself, while the walls of the mineral begin to emit a soft yellow light. Onyx is an expensive elite material, and experienced master, will be able to create a portal of unique beauty.

  

• Sandstone is a low-cost material mined in quarries. Fireplaces are rarely lined with sandstone, due to the absorption of soot and dust. To make a mantelpiece, polished stone is used. After treatment, there are no chips or potholes on the surface of the sandstone, which makes it easier to operate and keep the shelf clean.

  

• Quartzite is a natural type of stone, characterized by durability and beautiful appearance. Small cobblestones are used for heaters in sauna stove. Doesn't release when heated harmful substances. Quartzite does not absorb unpleasant odors. To remove soot, simply wipe the surface of the material with a damp sponge.

  

• Travertine is another durable material. It combines strength with a soft structure. For cutting, a regular one will do. Circular Saw. The advantage of travertine is unique golden color. The stone does not absorb water and does not slip like marble or granite.

  

To make the portal, only non-fragile natural stones are used. Individual elements made from soft limestone. Natural stone for facing fireplaces is much preferable to artificial stone. The natural material is durable and not afraid of thermal effects.

The cost of facing a fireplace with stone depends entirely on the choice of facing material. An expensive solution is the use of onyx, granite and marble. A budget option is to use rubble, sandstone and limestone.

How to cover the surface of a fireplace with stone

Technology of facing a fireplace with natural stone, great attention devotes himself to preparatory work. Already on initial stage, the professionalism of the cladding master becomes obvious. Before starting any finishing work, the tiler performs two mandatory steps:

• Determination of the pattern - the rules of cladding require that even before the start of finishing work, the general pattern must be determined, taking into account the characteristics of the material. Torn stone, also called wild stone, has uneven edges and is not the same thickness, which will need to be taken into account during further installation.
  Wild stone is selected in such a way as to ensure smooth transitions and uniformity of the pattern. Some craftsmen initially lay out the future cladding on the floor to get a general idea of ​​what the fireplace will look like after finishing.
• Rejection - for cladding you need a stone that has a beautiful structure, without chips or visible damage. All stones that do not meet these requirements are rejected.

As experience shows, up to 20-30% of the total time required for facing a fireplace is spent on determining the pattern and rejecting it. Only after this do they move on to the next stage of work: surface preparation.

Flexible stone, like marble, granite and onyx, is made in the form of slabs, which greatly facilitates the cladding process. Manufacturers offering finished products, often, on the back side the direction that is followed when gluing the slabs to the fireplace is marked.

Preparing the fireplace surface

The next feature of the cladding is proper preparation masonry surfaces. Natural stone creates a strong load. If you do not prepare the brickwork properly, over time, the material will simply fall away.

Preparation of the base for cladding includes the following:

• All sagging and irregularities left during brick laying are removed from the surface.
• In some cases, a reinforcing mesh is attached.
• The masonry is treated with a special primer, which includes marble or granite chips. The primer ensures strong adhesion of the stone to the surface.

The technology of facing a fireplace with artificial stone is somewhat different from working with natural material. The weight is much less, therefore, the main task when finishing is to ensure reliable fixation to the wall.

The use of artificial stone in the decoration of fireplaces is a budget option. After a few years, even with high-quality work, the surface of the material may become covered with cracks due to constant temperature changes. To prevent this from happening, thermal insulation is used. Thermal insulation is glued directly to the brick and prevents the destruction of artificial stone.

Mixtures for stone cladding

There are many blends to choose from different compositions, intended for specific purposes. When deciding which adhesive to choose, consider the following aspects:

• Fireplace surface temperature - for cladding around the firebox, special heat-resistant mixtures that can withstand heating up to 300-350°C will be required. High-temperature adhesive compositions are expensive, therefore, their use is limited to the area of ​​the outbreak.
• The dimensions of the stone are on the bags with mixtures; it is separately indicated how much weight it can withstand adhesive composition. For marble and granite, a special adhesive is made that can withstand heavy loads.
• Type of material - artificial stone is often placed on a solution containing gypsum fillers. For cladding natural rock, glue with the addition of clay and plasticizers is used.

When choosing a coating composition, follow the manufacturer's recommendations indicated on the packaging.

Grouting stone joints

Grout (joint) for seams has several characteristics:

• Heat resistance - when heated and cooled, the grout does not lose elasticity and does not crumble.
• Thickness - unlike the standard grout used for tiles, the grout for stone is applied in a layer several centimeters thick. After drying, due to special plasticizers, cracking of the seams does not occur.
• Colors.

The grout is applied using a special gun. The work is carried out carefully. Excess composition is removed with a damp sponge.

How to care for stone cladding

Soot on the lining is an unpleasant but integral aspect of using a fireplace. The appearance of soot is taken into account when choosing a finishing material and carrying out work to protect the surface after facing with stone.

Be sure to carry out work on applying a special heat-resistant varnish or impregnation. The compositions are completely transparent and leave no traces behind. The coating closes the pores of the stone and gives it soot- and soot-repellent properties.

There are compositions for cleaning and restoring the coating. After 2-3 years of intensive use, the portal inevitably loses its original attractiveness, the stone becomes dull. After treatment, the appearance is restored.

The stone portal is washed with a damp sponge without the use of abrasive cleaners and materials.

Before deciding to make a stone portal, take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of finishing. Additional material costs and the need to invite a qualified specialist lead to the fact that some customers refuse additional cladding of a brick structure.

The advantages of finishing with natural or artificial stone are the beautiful appearance and prestige that the fireplace acquires immediately after completion. facing works. The costs are completely justified and justified.

In country houses, fireplaces have always been very popular designs. In any case, any owner has thought about building a fireplace in some room. Some people built a real one, others limited themselves to a fake version - it’s a matter of taste. After all, the days have already passed when, among other things, fireplaces performed the important function of heating the living space.

Each of the options looks great, very original, creates comfort in the room - and in general, a very soulful atmosphere - everyone will agree with this. That is why the decorative decoration of the fireplace is important aspect cladding of housing, you can’t even argue with that.

What is the best way to decorate a fireplace today, what are the options? There are many materials, they are all varied. Let's talk about this topic in more detail - and you will definitely find something interesting for yourself.

Materials for the construction of fireplaces

Today you can build a fireplace in a country house using different materials - there are plenty of options. But even in simple urban fireplaces such designs can be found - this is quite normal.

So, in a private house they use for construction:

• Gas blocks;
• Foam blocks;
• Brick.

Such building materials are good for their fire resistance. They react well even to very high temperatures - this is why they are chosen.

In a situation where the fireplace is built from brick, red material is recommended for use. It retains heat perfectly and looks more beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.

Also in construction actively apply such solutions:

• If there are no options, you can always use white brick. Decorative finishing of the fireplace in this case can also be made with brick. The master can use bricks of different shades - there is nothing complicated about it. Just in concrete mortar add certain special coloring substances - the result is impressive;
• When the structure is built from aerated concrete or foam blocks, it’s time to think about how to decorate the fireplace, because without a special cladding it will not look its best. The materials are beautiful, they hold heat perfectly, but aesthetically there is some work to be done.

Please note: such materials are quite large - so if you make an error in the calculations, the fireplace can turn out to be very large. If this moment is critical, calculate everything in advance.

• The master should also remember that fireplaces usually have a chimney. If you are making a false structure, this element is decorative, so anyone can do it. But if the fireplace is real, you won’t be able to do without a high-quality and working chimney. Removing combustion products is vital;
• The same brick is used to build a chimney - this is the easiest way. The design assumes the presence of a damper - so that enough air gets into the fireplace - then the combustion process will be more productive and of high quality
• Building fireplaces from natural stone is an expensive task, but if you have the funds, this is an excellent option.

Especially, if you are creating a real office in a country house, hunter's room or hall.

Features of fireplace inserts (interior decoration)

If you are interested in what you can use to decorate a fireplace, you should also learn about something else: what a firebox is. The fireplace is the place where solids burning - it could be wood, coal or some other fuel. Decorative finishing of the fireplace also includes working with the firebox, but more on this below.

To finish this part of the structure, used today:

1. Brick;
2. Drywall sheets;
3. Natural stone.

Plasterboard cladding

• You can actually use sheets of plasterboard to cover the fireplace insert (after all, such material is even possible - it is durable). But, only if the work is carried out with a false fireplace. However, exceptions to the rules are also allowed. Drywall may be necessary if it is necessary to level the surface in the firebox;
• Only special material can be used in work of this level - moisture resistant drywall. It is not recommended to use any other one here;
• During the work, it is also worth paying attention - if such material is used, the volume of the firebox can be significantly reduced. This happens because the sheets are fastened to a frame (of course, metal). It is made on the surface from a special profile.

What is used for to execute installation work :

• The material itself is needed;
• Metal profile;
• Screwdriver and screws.

And now about the installation in detail:

• During the work, some difficulties may arise - their likelihood is especially high when there are places in the fireplace that are difficult to access. This is why it is recommended to work with a screwdriver (a tool that operates using rechargeable batteries);
• A fireplace insert is usually sheathed with plasterboard when the size of the firebox needs to be reduced – to a significant extent. This happens when the fireplace has big size– and the owner wants to correct the situation;
• If you decide to use sheets of such material, it is important to think through the interior decoration in advance so that the material can be protected from destructive impact fire and high temperatures.

They will definitely help you with this:

• Decorative stone;
• A natural stone;
• Ceramic tiles (not used often, rather an exception).

When the fireplace insert is lined with plasterboard, difficulties usually do not arise. First, they install the material, then they begin finishing work (here, too, only your own strength is fully sufficient).

We use brick

Typically, brick is used in a situation where the fireplace itself is built from this material. In this situation, the firebox is erected together with the rest of the structure; there is no need for additional decorative finishing.

In addition, brick is chosen in the case when the entire fireplace structure is made of another material - which cannot cope with temperature influences in any way (or is simply flammable and does not tolerate heat).

Such materials are:

• Wood;
• Drywall that is not fire resistant.

The chimney is laid out of brick, the firebox itself is inside the structure. And in order to ensure maximum safety, it is important to maintain a certain distance from the fireplace box to the facing brick layer. This interval should be at least 200 (or even better – 250) mm.

Ceramic tile cladding

If the decorative decoration of the fireplace is exactly what interests you, you cannot pass by such a wonderful material as ceramic tiles.

In general, it is rarely used for interior decoration of fireboxes; it is attached only to a surface that is flat (usually on drywall; we have already figured out above that its installation is not such a difficult task).

Perform installation ceramic tiles you can easily if you have at hand:

• Concrete mortar;
• Two spatulas;
• The finishing material itself;
• Cross-shaped plastic beacons (needed to ensure that the seam is even).

Features of using ceramic tiles:

• The material is very fire resistant. To perform the installation efficiently, it is best to use special construction adhesive or concrete mortar.

To make it beautiful, the distance between the tiles should be uniform. This is why it is worth using cruciform beacons - they are installed between the finishing elements. They are not expensive.

• When the installation work on installing the tiles is completed, the seam is usually masked - for this there is a special decorative putty (maybe different colors– you can easily find what you want). In general, nothing complicated - but the result will be great.

Decorative external finishing of fireplaces

Since fireplaces can be either real or purely decorative (they work using certain electrical appliances) – finishing options differ radically. Of course, when the fireplace is just an imitation, the facing process has a completely different approach.

Which materials for finishing fireplaces and stoves can be used? Here is the list:

1. Glass;
2. Wood;
3. Marble;
4. Porcelain tiles;
5. Drywall;
6. Decorative stone;
7. Ceramic tiles;
8. Decorative bassoon.

Marble and external cladding

• Decorative finishing of a fireplace with marble is expensive, but very nice solution, aesthetic. The design will acquire a truly solid appearance - a great way for the owner to emphasize his high social position;
• Today you can purchase completely ready-made linings for fireplaces - there is a demand, which means you can easily find a supply. Order by the right sizes– this is also possible with professionals;
• The master can use individual parts to assemble the cladding on his own.

Decorating a fireplace with marble is not the best simple task. This process labor-intensive, in addition, here it is worth remembering many subtleties and little things.

Eg:

• Marble weighs quite a lot. Because of this, its installation on a wall is impossible if the surface was previously covered with plasterboard. However, this rule does not apply to those decorative elements, which are provided to the buyer in a completely finished form;
• Installation of such natural stone is usually done on a brick or some other surface. For this, concrete mortar with various additives or a specialized adhesive is used.

What properties does marble have?? The following can be noted:

• Fire safety;
• Fire resistance;
• Durability;
• Strength.

It is also appropriate to add “practicality” here - but many masters will argue about this. The fact is that this finishing material has a very “capricious” surface. It reacts very poorly to the influence of certain detergents that contain abrasive particles.

In addition, stains may appear on the surface of marble over time - but only when the material was processed poorly.

Finishing the fireplace with plasterboard outside

How to decorate the fireplace? Plasterboard? Quite good option, especially since it occurs quite often. Especially when covering electric fireplaces.

The process as a whole looks like that:

1. First, a frame is made using profiles - plasterboard sheets are already attached to it. Afterwards, these sheets are plastered (this can help), then the finishing is done;
2. But here it is worth considering this point: the fireplace insert should also be lined with plasterboard;
3. Decorative stone or bassoon - these options look great outside. Installation of materials on the surface of the fireplace is very simple, especially if you use a specialized adhesive composition in your work.

Wood paneling, glass use

It's no secret that wood is famous for its beautiful texture. Decorating a fireplace with such material is quite possible; lining is perfect for this.

Installation of the material is possible on any surface - if desired.

For installation you need the following::

• Screwdriver;
• Wood screws;
• Wooden blocks or planks;
• The finishing material itself, you can’t go anywhere without it.

Of course, it is permissible to use wooden lining only in exterior finishing work, because this material burns very easily.

• In order for the lining to look aesthetically pleasing and the material to serve you for as long as possible, it is recommended to apply a special varnish to its surface after the installation is completed.

You can also use glass in cladding work. In modern interiors such material is in great demand..

Details about use:

• How can glass be used to decorate a fireplace? This doesn’t happen very often – that’s a fact. The fact is that this material can easily burst due to high temperature - and in such a situation there is nothing surprising;
• To prevent such a disaster from happening, the decorative finishing of the fireplace with glass is made only with a special fired thermal material that can withstand even exposure to direct fire or high temperature;
• Glass for a fireplace is an interesting solution to create an aesthetic element for covering the firebox. Also, with its help, interesting imitations of fireplaces are obtained (we are talking about false structures). Such options look unusual, very original, they will decorate any interior and add zest to your room.

Application of porcelain stoneware

This finishing material has recently been chosen to decorate a fireplace. It is worth noting the following technical properties:

• Porcelain tiles do not burn;
• Tolerates high temperatures well;
• Recognized as practical, moisture resistant;
• Installation work is carried out easily, without unnecessary complications.

Thus, facing fireplaces with porcelain stoneware is popular today.

There are reasons for this:

1. The finishing material is attached very easily and simply. The main thing is that the surface being treated is smooth. It is best to level with plaster, but you can also use sheets of drywall;
2. Porcelain tiles are mounted on the surface using a special adhesive composition. Since this material is chosen when decorative finishing of the fireplace is needed, it is made lightweight at the factory.

conclusions:

As you have already seen, you can decorate the fireplace different materials, there are plenty of ways here. Watch a video about how professionals handle this kind of work - they definitely have a lot to learn.

Today, fireplaces mainly serve only decorative function, equip them to create comfort and an appropriate atmosphere.

Even in ancient times, stones were used to build a fireplace. Nowadays, when technology allows the use of synthetic materials, stone is still very often used for facing the fireplace.

The demand for stone materials is due to the nobility, excellent taste and reliability of this type of cladding. The finishing not only adds beauty to the appearance, but also corresponds to the practicality and durability of the structure.

Stone is a natural, environmentally friendly material that can withstand long periods of heating at high temperatures, retaining heat in the oven. Has a long service life.

Cladding implies coordination general design rooms with the location and color shades of the fireplace for a harmonious composition of the entire interior.

Characteristics of natural stones

Facing stone is chosen from many varieties natural materials. At the same time, the texture reflects the elegance, style and nobility of the structures being built.

To have an idea of ​​the variety of natural materials, let's get acquainted with the most popular options.

Marble

The most common type of cladding. Marble has a rich palette of shades of white, red, gray, pink, green, brown and black. Stone patterns are created by its structure and depend on the methods of sawing the rock. The unique pattern of marble is used to create picturesque compositions.

Marble is characterized by many inclusions of different shades with veins and stripes. Processing methods affect the surface texture of the material: smooth, glossy or aged.

Cladding a fireplace with marble can be used in combination with other building materials. Great option based on marble stone, maintaining high natural quality, can be considered the use of ground marble.

Almost all varieties rock crushed into various fractions, which are used to produce marble mosaics or the main filler. Most often used plain varieties white and black marble.

Granite

It is one of the most durable, massive and durable types of materials. Finishing the fireplace with natural granite ensures the reliability and attractiveness of the structure. The natural texture fits harmoniously into the design of the space, containing matching granite objects, such as furniture or railings.

Granite material is unique decorative properties. The finish is characterized bright patterns and uniform grain size throughout the entire plane.

The place of extraction affects the variety of colors and its shades. High strength ensures long-term use. History has recorded facts of hundred-year-old granite fireplaces that still heat castles, as well as large mansions.

This stone is easy to process, providing the embodiment of a wide variety of design ideas. The combination of various slabs, mosaics, and collages created when facing the fireplace looks impressive. This design method gives exclusivity to each design element.

The use of granite to decorate a fireplace demonstrates the status of the owner and his attitude to life. Rich people enhanced the impression by using rare colors in order to add not just beauty, but to create originality and uniqueness of the interior.

Advantages of marble and granite for decoration:

• resistance to temperature changes;
• when heated, they do not emit harmful odors and smoke;
• always impressive appearance;
• combination with various building materials, such as wood, metal, glass, ceramics and other natural stones;
• undemanding operation;
• high strength, immunity to external influences.

Soapstone chlorite

Refers to a popular type of finishing materials. Thanks to its layered structure, it provides high heat capacity, so heat is retained in the stone and its surface is always warm.

They have known about it for many centuries. In Ancient Egypt and Asian countries he was credited with magical properties. The frequency of the emitted heat matches human radiation. The stone is believed to convey healthy natural strength when in contact with the human body. This strength increases the body's immunity and increases resistance. various bacteria and diseases.

IN folk medicine There is information about the beneficial effects on human health, normalization of blood pressure, restoration of the respiratory system and metabolism.

Soapstone has high density, thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion. Quality data the best way used for finishing fireplaces and stoves.

Sandstone

It is used for the front decoration of the fireplace, as it is resistant to high temperatures, durability and strong structure. Thanks to the uniqueness of this stone, a variety of original solutions for the fireplace.

It is easy to process and can be cut. Possesses large selection colors, shades and unique appearance. When facing with sandstone, you can create picturesque stone paintings.

This type of material best combines the qualities of decorativeness, environmental friendliness and affordable price.

Granite ceramics

Refers to a kind of finishing material that is made from natural clay and is used for decorative finishing. The appearance is similar to the texture and color of granite, marble and similar stones.

This material differs from ordinary ceramic tiles only in the basis of its manufacture. Granite ceramics are made using especially durable clay. In other respects they are very similar, especially in appearance.

Thanks to the clay contained in porcelain stoneware, this material has a strong structure, is not subject to mechanical stress, is resistant to elevated temperatures and is durable. During operation, the finishing stone always retains its color and original shine.

Shell rock

It is one of the most unique natural stones that create an original fireplace lining. Thanks to its natural porous structure, it has high thermal insulation and resistance to high temperatures, which is an important factor for finishing a fireplace.

The shell rock contains remains of fossilized sea shells and mollusks, which are preserved inside the stone.

To create the required shapes from shell rock, it is polished.

The most common colors are yellow and white various shades successfully used for interior decoration. Cutting out original parts from sandstone-shell rock allows you to design the structure in accordance with any requests of the owners.

Cladding with natural stone is not always suitable for decorating fireplaces. Modern technologies make it possible to use materials that are superior to natural stones in terms of heat transfer.

Therefore, use stone to decorate fireplaces if you are satisfied with the low heat capacity of its surface.

It is important to know that:

• stone finishing reduces the efficiency of the structure, absorbing heat;
• facing the fireplace with granite can be done in the house if it is not the heat transfer that is important, but the presence of a live fire;
• the durability of marble and granite fireplaces is an indisputable fact.

If you use the softest of stones - limestone, then only after a few decades you will be able to see the destruction of its structure. The remaining stones are less susceptible to external influences, so the finishing natural materials has no expiration date.

Disadvantages of natural stones

• Marble slabs fade over time and small cracks form on their surface;
• All natural stones are mined from the depths of the earth, so they have a high cost;
• Natural granite emits a natural radioactive background;
• Sandstone is characterized by abrasion and the ability to quickly absorb moisture from the air;
• Due to its loose structure, shell rock can accumulate soot, dust and get dirty.

On the other hand, in comparison with natural beauty, such shortcomings are negligible and therefore, when choosing finishing materials, be guided by practical and theoretical knowledge about stones.

Advantages of natural stones

• Unique, diverse and beautiful in multiple manifestations of textures and shades of color.
• Granite has powerful natural energy; it has a beneficial effect on the human psyche and calms the nervous system.
• Stone finishing can be used in rooms without regular heating, as it is resistant to temperature changes.
• Almost any shape and configuration of the structure can be veneered.

Finishing with natural stone gives a spectacular appearance and pleases residents with its consistency for many years.

Finishing with artificial materials

Interior decoration with artificial stones conveys the appearance of the power and strength of the stone, creating the original beauty of modern styles. Newest technologies allow you to easily realize the most incredible fantasies with the help of stone finishing.

Due to the ease of working with artificial stone, it is used for making complex structures fireplaces.

The advantages include:

• ease of processing and creation of various shapes and sizes when facing;
• light weight, which simplifies the decorating process;
• can be combined with other types of materials such as metal, glass or ceramics.

Using decorative stone to decorate a fireplace allows you to create surfaces similar in appearance to natural materials, while the work is much easier and faster.

The appearance of artificial stones among building materials allows you to use inexpensive analogues where expensive stones are purchased. At the same time, the functionality and aesthetics of the finishing quality are preserved.

Although, nevertheless, artificial stones may be inferior to natural stones in energy and natural benefits. Natural stones can heal and fill a space with healing ions and vibrations. For these purposes, semi-precious or natural gems such as jadeite, agate, onyx or malachite are used.

The harmony of the home atmosphere created by a stone fireplace conveys not only beauty, but also a feeling of reliability, stability and well-being.

With the help of a fireplace lined with wild stone, you can create a work of art, and its originality and uniqueness will correspond to your plans and attitude to life.

Such a fireplace can only be in a single copy, because natural stones have a unique pattern and inimitable shades created by nature itself. Diversity color shades, various ways styling and decoration create the uniqueness and sophistication of your home.

The hearth decorates any home. It's always nice to wrap yourself in a blanket, sit in front of your fireplace, and enjoy the flickers of the fire's flames.

In modern interiors they are increasingly installing decorative fireplaces from stone, using artificial materials to simplify finishing work. After all, the use of natural stone requires the creation of a foundation for the structure and complex construction manipulations.

In this article you will learn about the advantages of artificial stones, read the recommendations for the right choice material and get all the necessary information for finishing the fireplace with my own hands. In the photographs you can clearly see the types of decorative stone finishes and finished tiled fireplaces.

Advantages of decorative stones

Artificial stones are used for finishing electrical and wood fireplaces, gas structures, bio-fireplaces and fireplace stoves. By achieving maximum similarity of designs, finishing the fireplace with decorative stone complements the overall style of the interior.

Such facing stones have a number of advantages:

• high fire resistance;
• retain their natural color and appearance for a long time.
• ease of decoration due to the lightness of the material;
• a variety of colors and textures allow you to select stones for fireplaces in the desired style;
• low cost compared to natural stone;
• ease of independent use, convenient cutting and installation;
• does not emit harmful odors, as it is environmentally friendly clean materials, does not contain impurities and toxic reagents.

Artificial stone is made from cement with the addition of expanded clay, pumice or fillers. Dyes are added to give the required colors to the material.

• Thanks to these technologies, artificial stones weigh approximately half as much as natural ones.
• With a low cost, the external texture of the material differs little from natural stones, sometimes it is difficult to distinguish them from each other.
• The appearance of the material follows the natural shape of cobblestones. They come in the form of chipped, sawn rubble stones.

According to individual customer orders, we produce completely unusual shapes and colors.

To cladding a stone fireplace with your own hands, you need to purchase the appropriate materials.

When choosing a decorative one from the whole variety, you should approach this issue creatively; decide in advance on the design style of your design. It is important to consider the following tips:

• You should not chase the goods of foreign companies. Most often, Russian analogues have best quality and at the same time have a low cost.
• Finishing a fireplace with stone is done using heat-resistant products. Before purchasing finishing stones, consider the heat-resistant characteristics, depending on the type of fireplace used. If you decide to use non-heat-resistant decorative stones for cladding, then toxic substances may be released when heated.
• Check out the quality certificates for the products; such documents will guarantee compliance with the specified parameters. If you are refused certificates, this indicates questionable quality of the products. It is possible that production was carried out using harmful components.
• Buy material from well-known manufacturing companies that have been working for a long time and have proven themselves in this industry.
• High-quality products on cardboard packaging have a brand logo and manufacturer’s coordinates.
• Before purchasing, pay attention to the appearance of the artificial stone; the presence of defects in the form of cracks or chips, as well as other signs of defects, is unacceptable.
• Pay attention to the date of production of the stone, since the hardening process of the material takes place within a month after release. Only after this time does the material acquire its strength.

In addition to decorative stones, you will need to stock up

• heat-resistant glue;
• water-repellent impregnations with protective properties;
• grout;
• a cleaner designed to remove cement residues from the surface;
• a specialized varnish for finishing surfaces, creating the effect of wet stone.

A special adhesive composition is used to clad the fireplace. It must be selected taking into account the main surface: quality connection This can only happen if the composition of the decorative stone matches the adhesive base.

• For example, gypsum decorative stone is glued together using gypsum glue, and cement stone requires a cement adhesive composition.

Moreover, if the main surface has depressions, then mastic is used. It can qualitatively fill all the unevenness.

Preparatory work before cladding

After choosing the facing material, you can begin preparatory work. For preliminary preparation, decide on the surface on which you will lay the artificial stone.

• These works can only be carried out at air temperatures above 5 0 C, since low temperatures affect the quality of surface bonding.

To prevent contamination of the elements, the stone should be faced from top to bottom. Thus, the completed work will have a neat and tidy appearance.

To cut artificial stone parts, use a hacksaw with fine teeth, in this case the edge will be smooth and beautiful.

• When using a wooden surface as a base, it is pre-coated with waterproofing.

If the fireplace is made of metal or concrete, waterproofing is not performed.

Please note! If there are serious unevennesses in the concrete or brick walls of the fireplace, it is necessary to apply plaster.

• The plaster mesh is attached to the base with special fasteners.
• Apply plaster on top of the mesh and wait until the layer dries completely.

If the thickness of the materials has discrepancies or the shape of the decorative stone has an uneven structure, then it is worth laying them in a chaotic order. This way the overall composition will look natural and believable.

Required Tools

Before carrying out construction work, prepare the appropriate tools:

In addition to the tools indicated in the photograph, it is advisable to have:

• self-tapping screws or nails for installation of auxiliary materials;
• a spray bottle or brush for wetting the surface of the base before applying glue;
• construction trowels;
• regular and rubber hammer;
• grinder with a disc for stone;
• screwdriver and drill;
• smooth wooden blocks as guide posts;
• container in which the solution is mixed.

Stone cladding

Decorating a fireplace with decorative stone is shown in the photo; we will analyze the main stages of finishing work and focus on important nuances the process itself.

The entire base surface of the fireplace portal is cleaned. It is important to pay special attention to this, because the outcome of all work depends on the preparation of the foundation.

If the portal is brick, it is cleaned, removing excess mortar or uneven seams. Sharp and durable metal object make an indentation in the seams between the bricks.

• If the main surface is uneven, it is leveled with plaster or cement mortar, applying it to the mesh.

Before finishing the finishing work, make a drawing and lay out all the parts on the floor. Before dry laying, try on one row and check the configuration.

• When using tiles that have irregular shape, it is necessary to mark it on the reverse side; the numbers of adjacent parts are written on the edges.

It is important to know that the lined fireplace will be smooth if Finishing work begin with strengthening thick stones. They will become a guide for applying glue under thin masonry parts.

• When laying stone tiles, take them from different boxes to evenly distribute the pattern, as they may differ in color and thickness from each other.

If possible, make the seams between the tiles of the same width so that the pattern matches in the future.

• seamless masonry, press all the parts tightly together.

Wanting to veneer “like a brick” or using parts rectangular shape, make sure the corners are vertical. Clearly control the connection of horizontal and vertical planes, maintaining an angle of 90 degrees.

• To do this, you can use a special template on which the thickness of the seams and the intersection of perpendicular lines are marked.

The finishing process always starts from the bottom corner. After completing the facing of the corner surface, they move on to the upper horizontal row. Next comes the main work, which is carried out from top to bottom.

• Having finished the work, you need to wait at least a day until the glue dries completely, then you can proceed to rubbing the seams.

Important! First check the quality of the grout on a piece of decorative stone to see if it leaves marks on it.

After the surface of the entire structure has dried, it is treated with a special fire-resistant hydrophobic composition. Thus, it is created protective film, which does not allow moisture to pass through and preserves the decorative stone during deformation or external influence on the fireplace. Dust can be easily wiped off from such a surface. Also, the protective film preserves the structure of the artificial stone during temperature changes.

It is advisable to use decorative stone to decorate the front and side parts of the portal. For the top part, choose solid planes from ready-made slabs made of natural or artificial stone.

DIY decorative stones

Having little experience in construction work you can make facing stones yourself required size and colors.

To do this, use silicone molds into which a solution of cement, sand and dyes is poured.

According to some technologies cement mixture replaced by alabaster. In this case, all the components are immediately mixed, diluted with water to the required consistency and poured into molds.

In the molds, the material must completely harden, only then can it be used to decorate the fireplace.

Decorating a fireplace with decorative stones is available to anyone. At first glance, it seems that this is very difficult and time-consuming, although this is not the case. If something doesn’t work out for you in the process, remember that you can always redo it.

The main thing is to select the selected parts correctly and be creative in the process, following the recommendations. In this case, the fireplace will fill the beauty and charm of your home, while delighting your entire family for many years.

A fireplace in a house or apartment is both a sign of luxury and an interior detail that gives comfort, peace, and warmth. What would a romantic evening be without a fire? And besides, fire is one of those things that you can look at endlessly. Are you inspired and have already started decorating your fireplace?

Leave the installation to the professionals, and think about how to decorate the portal for the fireplace so that it fits into the interior of the room and is almost its central element.

The fireplace can be anything - gas, electric, biofuel, natural, even imitation. And it can be placed in a corner, in a wall or against a wall, or be an island. Any of them is beautiful.

The main thing is that the fireplace itself, the mantelpiece, the portal, and the fireplace accessories are chosen with taste and look harmonious.

In the meantime, while the fireplace is being installed, there is time to think about what the finishing of the fireplace portal will be like. You can use different materials.

• Brick.
• Wood in the form of a solid mass, lining or panels.
• Decorative stone - artificial or natural.
• Modeling.
• Drywall.
• Plaster.
• Ceramic tiles.

Advice: all materials must be fire-resistant, and drywall and wood must be impregnated with special compounds that prevent combustion.

Before moving on to options for finishing the portal, it is worth considering the height of the fireplace, its width, and location.

• Fireplace and portal style. They must match. This largely depends on the finish and location.
• Location and size. If the hearth is located near the floor, then both a narrow and a wide model will do. But wall-mounted fireplaces or those that are raised above the floor should be wide. The exception is island fireplaces, which are not attached to any wall.
• The portal is associated with the design of the fireplace and its task is to emphasize this. If the fireplace itself protrudes, then the portal must be on the same level with the fireplace, otherwise all the beauty of the open fire will be lost.
• Proportions. Consider not only the hearth itself, but the space surrounding it. So, for a floor fireplace you need free place right in front of him. If this is a problem, prefer wall model. In addition, proportions should be maintained in size. The classic ratio is when ¾ of the entire height of the portal is occupied by the fireplace and ½ of its width.
• You should not build a portal in advance without already having a real model of the fireplace. It happens that either the dimensions do not correspond to those indicated on the website, or you can simply miss various little things during its installation - wiring, chimney, fastening. And with the design, you can make mistakes in shade and material. Conclusion - it’s easier to deal with a ready-made, already installed fireplace.

Now let’s look at options for finishing the fireplace portal from various materials.

What finishing material should I choose?

Brick

The brick finish of the portal is suitable for interiors in country, Provence, and loft styles.

The finishing brick must be of high quality, without chips or cracks. It is preferable to use a grade of 200 or higher.

The color is selected both for the fireplace itself and for the style of the living room - white, red, red-orange, etc.

Do you want to make a brick portal yourself? The video will help you with this.

A natural stone

Expensive interiors - classic, empire, baroque, modern - should also correspond to the fireplace portal.

Marble, granite and other durable, beautiful rocks - such stones are used to decorate the fireplace.

A fireplace made of marble is expensive, a fireplace made of cobblestones is original.

Working with this material has its own subtleties.

• Weight. It is significant, so before installing the fireplace it is necessary to strengthen the floor underneath it. The foundation should be several centimeters greater than the width of the portal and the depth of the fireplace.
• It is durable, beautiful, fireproof, almost eternal.
• Large pieces of stone may fall off during installation, so use hooks.

This is an expensive material, but the result is worth it.

Fake diamond

If you are confused by the weight or cost of natural stone, you can also take artificial one. In beauty and quality it is almost as good as natural material.

Portal made of decorative stone. Find 5 differences.

The artificial stone is mounted on a frame and construction mesh. But a strengthening foundation is not necessary. When purchasing material, make a reserve of 10-15%. It will be needed to finish corners, a frieze, and possibly a shelf above the fireplace.

The beauty of finishing a portal with artificial stone is that it has enough variations in color, structure, and texture. At the same time, it does not emit toxic gases or unpleasant odors when heated, since it is made from environmentally friendly materials.

And anyone can do DIY styling. Do you have any doubts? Video instructions to help you.

Drywall

A plasterboard portal will fit into modern interiors. His styles are high-tech, art deco, minimalism.

For this design you will need a frame to which the plasterboard sheets will be attached. Subsequently, the portal is covered with paint, mosaic, plaster, artificial stone, and modeling.

Important! Please note that this material is not suitable for natural fire fireplaces. Despite the impregnation, it is not able to withstand the heat.

Tree

For finishing it can be used as wooden panels, so carved wood from a solid massif. In the first case, the fireplace will fit into the loft, modern, or country style. In the second case, it will decorate a classic interior.

Fireplaces made from solid wood or parquet boards are equally environmentally friendly.

You can lay out the fireplace from a parquet board or cover it with clapboard. If you use wood, do not hide its texture. The more noticeable the smoothed knots and annual rings are, the more beautiful and unusual the portal will be.

Important! The wood must be well dried and impregnated with a substance that ensures the fire resistance of the material.

Ceramics

Ceramic fireplace cladding is neat, practical and versatile. This portal is suitable for both natural and artificial fireplaces.

The basis for the portal is a frame made of chipboard and profile. And the finishing itself is reminiscent of laying tiles in a bathroom or kitchen - mortar or glue, beacons, grout.

Plaster stucco

If there is already a ready-made portal, then gypsum elements are attached to it - cornices, half-columns, moldings, pilasters.

Please note that gypsum stucco is quite heavy. Therefore, the frame must be strong to withstand this weight.

Polyurethane molding

In a modern interior, a polyurethane analogue of gypsum stucco is allowed.

True, it is advisable to use it only in false fireplaces. An open fire can not only damage this beauty, but also cause a fire.

Plaster

If the fireplace is built into the wall, then finishing the portal is not complicated and is similar to conventional wall finishing.