Tips For Tiling Your Fireplace | Topps Tiles

As you prepare your fireplace for the colder weather, you may be considering giving your fireplace a makeover.

However, there can be some confusion as to what tiles are suitable for a fireplace or log burner. Typically people opt for fireproof bricks, yet there are alternative ways to decorate your fireplace.

What you need to know before buying fireplace tiles

Before you start tiling your fireplace, it is important to understand what tiles are suitable for fireplaces to enable you to make guided decisions.

Can I tile inside my fireplace?

You can tile any fireplace as long as the walls are flat, sound, and can sufficiently take the weight of the selected tiles. However, it’s crucial to factor in the type of fireplace tile used and the distance between the heat source and said tiles.

Are tiles heat-resistant?

While most tiles are heat-resistant, it’s best to keep them away from the direct source of heat. Tiles, when exposed to high heat, can be susceptible to cracking and, more commonly, discolouration over time. To ensure the durability and longevity of the tiles, it is recommended to tile at least 14cm away from the heat source.

What tiles are suitable for a fireplace?

Various types of tiles are suitable for a fireplace, hearth or log burner, however, they depend on how far the heat source is away from the tiles. If the heat source is more than 20cm away from the tiles, then it is safe to use most types of tiles. However, it is advised that you use porcelain tiles because this material acts the same way as fire-resistant bricks by absorbing heat without transferring it to the surrounding areas due to its density. This means that porcelain tiles can minimise the risk of damage, making them suitable for fireplaces. Please note that our recommendations in this article are based on the heat source being at least 14cm away. Refer to individual product pages for specific details.

How to tile a fireplace

When it comes to tiling around fireplaces and log burners, it is a myth that you need to use really thick tiles. Instead, providing that the tile you’ve chosen is suitable for fireplaces regardless of thickness, it will be suitable. We’d recommend either a porcelain or natural stone tile to sit underneath your burner or fireplace as this will offer the strength and durability required. When tiling beneath your fireplace make sure to seal your chosen natural stone correctly before fitting the burner as this ensures that your stone is better protected. Many porcelain tiles are already pre-sealed but it is always worth checking before purchasing.

Using fireplace tile adhesive

There is increased emphasis on tile adhesive and grout when it comes to fireplace tiles. However, not all fireplace tile adhesives will be appropriate; rather the amount of heat your tiles are exposed to significantly impacts what product you require. The closer your tiles are to the central heat spot, the more resilient the product you use needs to be, for example, an enclosed log burner is far hotter than one with an open wall. While all BAL adhesives can endure temperatures ranging from 150-200⁰C, we recommend fixing your tiles with the Palace Heat Resistant Adhesive. For grouting, we recommend the BAL Micromax2 as it can withstand temperatures up to 100⁰C. If your fireplace generates higher temperatures, it is essential to use a cement-based product.

Tips for decorating a fireplace

Not sure how to start decorating your fireplace? Here are a few tips to help guide your decision and spark some creativity.

Focal point versus functionality

When decorating a fireplace it’s important to treat it like another feature in the room, like you would lighting or paint colour. The size, shape and finish of the fireplace will all have an impact on the overall look and feel of your room. However, before you start your fireplace makeover, you should decide whether you want it to be a focal point or a functional part of the room.

If you want your fireplace to look more natural, paint the surroundings the same colour as your walls and then choose a simple matt tile in a regular laying pattern with a coordinating grout. This approach allows you to put more emphasis on creating a focal point elsewhere, whether it’s a large ornate rug on the floor, a piece of art, or an architecturally inspired sofa.

Alternatively, if you want your fireplace to be the focal point, ensure that the style of the fixture, tiles, and fireplace back panels all work within the scheme of your room and contribute to the overall image you want to create.

Turn your fireplace or log burner into a focal point

Over the last few years the popularity of log burners has significantly risen and it is no surprise why: free-standing log burner units come in a range of sizes and offer a simple, yet attractive solution to a natural fire, whether for coal or wood-burning.

To create a focal point, the tiles behind your log burner or fireplace need to be eye-catching. If you want to create a classic look, choose a neutral-toned tile or choose a textured finish like our Devon range for a more contemporary twist on neutrals. If you’re looking for a plain tile but still want to create a feature, use tiles behind your log burner that have different lay patterns like basket weave and herringbone, such as our Hartley Old Red tile. They will still add interest to your space but will also blend nicely into the rest of the room.

Renovate the original features

If you’ve got a penchant for traditional fireplaces, such as the classic Victorian versions, you'll have more freedom when tiling around the exterior. Traditional fireplaces like the Victorian styles, emit significantly less heat, providing greater flexibility when it comes to tiling around them. Ceramic tiles are a great choice for decorating a fireplace, given their versatility in sizes, colours and finishes.

If you’re looking to restore a Victorian fireplace, we’d recommend our Minton Hollins range. Inspired by the original designs from the 1800s by William Morris, Henry Dearle and William De Morgan, these fireplace tiles boast vibrant designs and intricate patterns that make them the perfect choice for creating a traditional cosy snug.

Fireplace makeover ideas

Here are examples of the most common types of fireplaces and some ideas of how you can give them a fireplace makeover:

Modern country

A tiled fireplace hearth is quite a common sight in a classic country property and can often become the main focal point, even in a smaller living space. If you’re trying to achieve a more modern country look then a streamlined finish in neutral tones is ideal. Regal will create the desired effect.

Image Credits L-R: Splitface Autonno Blend, Graceinmyspace.com, Pinterest, Border Oak

Traditionally victorian

To create a fireplace that mimics Victorian designs, opt for ceramic fireplace tiles as they come in a range of sizes, colours and finishes. When tiling a fireplace to replicate Victorian designs, we recommend our Minton Hollins range. Drawing inspiration from the original 1800s designs by William Morris, Henry Dearle, and William De Morgan, these tiles boast vibrant designs and intricate patterns, making them ideal for decorating fireplaces to reflect the Victorian era.

Image Credits L-R: The Frugality, Modern Country Style, MH Delft, The House That Black Built

Contemporary scandi

If you want something contemporary and stripped back, decorate your fireplace using a monochromatic colour palette with a painted wooden surround. Our Stello tile is a great patterned tile which creates a stunning feature and can be styled to suit most living room schemes. We love it styled with stunning, coloured glassware or clean mirrors.

Image Credits L-R: Arada Stoves, Pinterest, Topps Tiles, renovating_number.8

The wow factor

If you’ve inherited a fireplace and don’t have the budget to change it, consider turning the whole wall around it into a feature instead. A decorative wallpaper can add pattern and interest or a tiled wall can add texture.

Decorating and tiling a fireplace is a surefire way to enhance a space. Why not make it your next project? WHICH LOOK IS YOUR FAVOURITE? TAG US IN YOUR STORY OR FINISHED PROJECT OVER ON INSTAGRAM @TOPPSTILES