What tile is good for a fireplace?

When choosing tile for a fireplace, there are a few key factors to consider: the material, size, color, texture, and installation method. The right tile can beautifully complement a fireplace and make it a stunning focal point in a room. The wrong tile can crack, discolor, or even pose safety hazards. This article will explore the pros and cons of different tile materials, provide tips on picking the perfect size, color and texture, and outline best practices for installation.

Tile Material Options for Fireplaces

The material you choose for your fireplace tile is arguably the most important decision. There are a variety of natural stone and ceramic/porcelain options to consider:

Natural Stone Tiles

Granite – Granite is one of the most popular stones for fireplace surrounds. It comes in a diverse array of colors and patterns. Granite is very durable and heat resistant, making it a great choice for withstanding the high temperatures of a fireplace. One downside is that the surface can be porous so it requires yearly sealing.

Marble – Marble is a classic luxurious option for fireplace tile. It has beautiful veining patterns and comes in an array of colors like white, gray, black, and green. Marble is less porous than granite so sealing is only needed once every three years. One major drawback is that marble is prone to etching when acidic liquids are spilled on it.

Slate – Slate is a metamorphic rock that is an excellent heat conductor. This makes it great for radiating the warmth from a fireplace. Slate comes in more limited color variations of grays, blacks, greens, purples, and reds. The surface can chip and crack over time.

Limestone – Limestone has a distressed, antique look that can complement traditional decor. Its softer composition makes it easier to carve intricate designs. Limestone is prone to staining and etching from acids.

Travertine – Travertine is a form of limestone with rustic imperfections like pits and holes. Filling these during installation creates an interesting texture. It’s on the softer side so travertine can scratch and dent. Regular sealing is required.

Ceramic/Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain – Porcelain tile is an excellent choice for fireplaces. It has very low porosity so spills don’t stain it. Porcelain is durable, scratch resistant, and withstands heat well. It comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors, shapes, and patterns.

Ceramic – Ceramic tile shares many of the advantages of porcelain. It provides great durability and an extensive range of design options. Ceramic is softer and more porous than porcelain which makes it more prone to chipping and staining.

Tile Material	Pros	Cons
Granite	Very durable, heat resistant, diverse colors/patterns	Porous, requires yearly sealing
Marble	Luxurious look, veining patterns, variety of colors	Prone to etching from acids
Slate	Good heat conduction, color variations	Can chip/crack over time
Limestone	Distressed antique look, carves well	Prone to staining/etching
Travertine	Rustic texture from holes	Soft, scratches/dents, sealing needed
Porcelain	Durable, scratch resistant, variety of patterns	None
Ceramic	Durable, variety of patterns	More porous/prone to chipping than porcelain

Tile Size Considerations

Tile size is both an aesthetic choice and a practical consideration:

• Smaller tiles like mosaics provide more grout lines which some homeowners find visually appealing. They also make installation easier.
• Larger tiles have fewer grout lines for a more seamless look. Oversized tiles can make a design statement.
• Tile size should be proportional to the size of the fireplace for optimal visual balance.
• Mosaic sheets simplify installation around curved fireplaces vs. individually placing each small tile.
• Larger tiles are quicker to install than hundreds of small tiles.

Standard tile sizes include:

• Mosaic tile sheets – 12 x 12 inches
• Subway tile – 3 x 6 inches
• Square tile – 4 x 4 inches
• Hexagon tile – 4 to 8 inches
• Rectangular tile – 4 x 12 inches up to 16 x 32 inches
• Large format tile – 16 x 16 inches or larger

Tile Layout Patterns

Creative tile layouts can add visual intrigue to a fireplace. Here are some options:

• Stack bond – tiles lined up in straight vertical rows
• Herringbone – tiles placed in an interlocking V pattern
• Basketweave – overlaid rows of rectangular tiles
• Subway brick – offset rows mimic subway brick walls
• Hexagon – interlocking hexagon tiles covering the surface
• Mosaic – small mosaic tiles creating pictures or designs

Tile Color and Texture Selection

Choosing tile colors and textures that coordinate with the rest of your decor is key to creating a cohesive look. Here are some tips:

• Select a neutral tile color like white or gray to keep the focus on the fireplace itself.
• Match colors in wall paint, furniture, or accent decor to pick complementary tiles.
• Add visual interest with multi-colored mosaic tiles or irregular stone patterns.
• Stick to a color palette of 2-4 complementary colors for a clean, elegant look.
• Warm earth tones like terracotta can enhance the cozy feeling of a fireplace.
• Glossy or polished tiles will reflect firelight and create a glamorous mood.
• Textured tiles like travertine add rustic charm.
• Mosaics provide depth from the grout lines and multi-colored tiles.

What Colors to Avoid

Some tile colors should be avoided around fireplaces:

• Whites – Easily show soot stains over time.
• Blacks – Can appear too dark and cavelike.
• Bold primaries – Red, blue, yellow can overwhelm.
• Green – Clashes with fire colors.

Fireplace Tile Installation Tips

Proper installation is crucial to creating a fireplace that safely and beautifully showcases your tile choice. Here are best practices to follow:

• Select a tile adhesive that is formulated for high heat areas.
• Use a premium nonsagging grout that resists cracking and discoloring.
• Allow extra drying time for the thinset mortar in the heat of a fireplace.
• A professional installation is recommended, especially for natural stone.
• Seal grout and some natural stone tiles after installation.
• Use cut-to-fit tiles around the edges for clean results.
• Include tile on the upper front, inner sides and hearth for a complete look.

With careful tile selection and proper installation, you can achieve a fireplace tile design that adds warmth, beauty, and elegance to any space.

FAQ

Is ceramic or porcelain tile better for fireplaces?

Porcelain tile is generally a better choice for fireplaces than ceramic. It is more impervious to moisture, resists cracking at high temperatures, and is less prone to damage from falling embers or logs. Porcelain comes in a wide variety of styles to complement any decor.

What natural stone works best around a fireplace?

Granite is the best natural stone for fireplace surrounds. It has excellent durability and heat resistance. Marble also withstands high temperatures but requires more maintenance to prevent etching. Slate and limestone are less ideal as they can crack from the heat.

What type of tile should never be used around a fireplace?

Soft, porous stones like sandstone or alabaster are not recommended for fireplace tile. Their permeable composition stains easily, absorbs heat, and can crack or even explode from the high temperatures. Vinyl tiles can melt or burn near a fireplace. Delicate glass tiles are also unsuitable as they break easily.

What size tile should I use on my fireplace?

The tile size you choose comes down to personal preference and the scale of your fireplace. Many designers recommend a combination of mosaic sheets and larger field tiles. Smaller mosaics around the firebox highlight the details while bigger tiles on the surrounding area create visual balance. Make sure tile is proportional for a cohesive look.

What pattern looks best for a fireplace tile layout?

Herringbone, basketweave, and stacked patterns all create visual interest and work well for fireplace tile. Contrasting borders also help define the fireplace area. Keep grout lines minimal with stone or large format tiles. Mosaics offer more flexibility for geometric or artistic designs.

What maintenance is required for fireplace tile?

Sealing porous natural stone tiles annually prevents staining and damage. Grout may need to be resealed every few years. Gently clean soot and embers from tile surfaces after use. Repair any cracked tiles as soon as possible. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can dull the finish.

Conclusion

The perfect fireplace tile completes the look and feel of your hearth. By choosing the right material, size, layout, color, and texture you can achieve a stunning and functional design. Pay close attention to proper installation methods like using high heat mortar and grout. With some planning and creativity, your fireplace tile can become a beautiful centerpiece that you enjoy for years to come.