It’s fireplace season! The glow on a cold winter night combined with the warmth it provides makes this home feature one of our favorites. There are many materials to choose from, but we recommend selecting the one that fits with your home’s style, is durable, and likely to show well for years to come.

Ledgestone – small strips of stone are put together to create one attractive linear feature. A very durable option for fireplaces, Ledgestone is available in a multitude of colors and can work for all home styles. And, it’s a good option for personalizing your space while maintaining a natural feel.

Metal – Often featured in homes with a modern aesthetic, metal options abound in steel, copper, or cast iron. We find dark colors like black, brown, patina, or an oxidized version are the client favorite when this material is selected, though gold is holding strong. One of the disadvantages of a metal surround is that some metal conducts heat, so it could be a hazard.

Concrete – A good choice for modern and contemporary homes, concrete is a beautiful option for today’s remodeled fireplace. It’s durable and heat resistant and is available in many hues, but the material is heavy and does require regular maintenance.

Brick – Often paired with wood, brick offers a timeless look. The material retains heat. possibly warming the room even after the fire is out. Overall, the material is durable and low maintenance and can be laid out in a variety of patterns to meet many design preferences. Bricks don’t offer the same level of thermal efficiency as alternative materials, so that may be something to consider.

Tile – Comes in a variety of colors and styles and can even mimic stone but is cheaper! Whether you’re using ceramic, porcelain, glass or mosaic, tile is typically a low maintenance option while also being heat resistant. The only thing that you must consider about using tile is the grout lines, as they will require occasional cleaning.

Slab – Usually in marble, granite and quartz, a full slab is a statement feature for a fireplace. Like selecting a slab for a countertop, each will be unique. There are no grout lines to worry about and most materials will handle heat well. If you select marble or granite, some sealing maintenance may be required.

Fieldstone – A more traditional option if you love an earthy look. Large stones found near the surface of the earth make up this style. Durable and low maintenance, this style is great for more traditional homes.
Plaster – Probably makes you think of the southwest, which is true, but it’s not unfamiliar in PNW homes. Plaster looks like a version of textured drywall and will work with a variety of home styles but it is handmade and can be more fragile than alternative options.