Fireplace cladding: material selection and design examples. Decorating a fireplace with decorative stone How to tile a fireplace

Recently, the construction of a fireplace in the country has gained particular popularity. After all, this multifunctional product allows you to enjoy the natural warmth, its crackling has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. In addition, it can become a real home decoration. Who doesn't dream of enjoying the comfort of the radiated heat on cold winter evenings? But in order for it to fit perfectly into the interior, it is necessary to carefully approach the choice of its exterior finish. Surely, many are interested in how to decorate a fireplace on their own, while creating harmony and comfort.
Today there are many options for decorating a fireplace. Facing a unique fireplace with your own hands, step-by-step instruction which is presented below, allows even an inexperienced owner to become the happy owner of a beautiful piece of furniture.

Sewing seams - an easy way to finish

After the fireplace is built, it is imperative to perform the jointing. To carry out this type of work, it is necessary to evenly distribute the solution between the masonry elements using a special device. Seams can be indented or convex. It depends on the individual wishes of the owner of the cottage.
Today, very often a special pigment is added to the solutions, which is able to color the substance in any shade. This allows you to create an original structure that fits perfectly into the design.
To fill the seams you will need:

hammer pick;
trowel;
special jointing for creating convex or concave seams;
a spatula for applying the solution.

Work instructions:

the formation of horizontal seams;
the formation of vertical seams;
cleaning masonry with a special brush made of natural fibers;
application of a special paint and varnish substance that is resistant to high temperatures.

All work should be done very carefully. It is strictly forbidden to clean the masonry with a brush with coarse wire bristles, because it can spoil the appearance by causing scratches. Such a design of a fireplace with their own hands can be done by everyone.

Plastering fireplace

Decorating a fireplace with your own hands with plaster is the simplest and, at the same time, inexpensive way to create beauty and comfort. With its help, you can create the most incredible scenery. For example, applying a plaster mixture with a sponge will give it a kind of waviness. You can also add pigment to the finishing mixture and thereby color it in the desired shade.
So, after the masonry has dried, you can safely proceed to plastering:

add finely chopped fiberglass and table salt to the finished plaster mixture. This will improve the quality of the coating;
clean the surface of the masonry and evenly seal the seams to a depth of 1 cm;
heat the fireplace for better distribution of the plaster and its even drying;
moisten the surface of the fireplace with a spray bottle;
using the "spraying" method, apply the first ball of the plaster mixture;
ensure complete drying of the first ball;
apply a finishing ball of plaster.

The application of the finishing coat requires special attention. Using a trowel or brush, apply the mixture, evenly distributing it over the surface. You can eliminate irregularities with a special float, which should be worked in a circle. The thickness of the ball should not exceed 0.5 cm.

Using drywall to decorate an electric fireplace

When performing this type of design, it is worthwhile to first equip the frame. It should be mounted with an accurate calculation. That is, vertical frame racks should allow you to securely fix the drywall, but at the same time its joints should be neat and invisible. Fastening of plasterboard sheets should be carried out strictly along the frame. Fixing them between profiles is strictly prohibited. Thus, decorating a fireplace with your own hands using drywall includes the following steps:

clearly plan the structure;
apply only visible marks on the surface for fixing the profile elements. The markup should be done evenly, clearly and at the same distance;
fix the vertical profiled frame according to the marks. For this work, ordinary screws are suitable;
installation of horizontal frame elements;
sheathe the frame using plasterboard sheets. For fixing, use self-tapping screws that are attached at a distance of no more than 150 mm between themselves;
close up drywall joints with a special tape dipped in plaster solution;
to carry out the installation of corners - this will give not only expressiveness to the forms, but also provide the structure with strength;
to carry out external decoration. You can arrange drywall in different ways, including plastering.

Installation of drywall is not a difficult type of work and does not require special equipment. For this type of work, you only need a screwdriver, which can be found in every home.

Using stone to decorate a brick fireplace

Finishing with natural stone allows you to make the fireplace especially elegant and chic. Natural material, like no other, fits into any room design, allowing you to emphasize the nobility and sophistication of the owner. In addition, natural stone has unique performance characteristics.
With special equipment, you can create real masterpieces of art. If you do not have devices for processing natural stone, then you can use shell rock, limestone, rubble stone. Such a fireplace with your own hands will become the pride of every owner of the house.
Artificial decorative stone can also be used to decorate the fireplace. It is outwardly similar to natural, easy to install and has a long period of use, during which it does not lose its appearance.

Modern technologies allow you to choose an artificial material for any natural fossil. Alternatively, you can make your own artificial stone. To prepare a mixture for making a stone, it is necessary to mix cement, sand and pigment. Pour the prepared mixture into special Silicone forms, leave for a certain time until it solidifies completely. Remove the finished artificial stones from the mold. They are ready for tiling work.
Cladding with both natural and artificial materials is performed in exactly the same way: with the help of a special glue for ceramic tiles you need to fix the stones on the surface of the fireplace. To create a beautiful pattern, stones can be laid out on a flat surface, choosing the most advantageous options for their placement. Thus, when they are fixed already on the surface of the product, there will be no troubles associated with the size or shape.

The use of tiles as a decoration for a fireplace

Facing a fireplace with tiles is one of the most demanded design options. Experts recommend using tiles:

clinker, with which traditional designs are created;
majolica with a glazed surface with a printed pattern;
terracotta, impressive in its matte finish;
porcelain stoneware, having a variety of shapes and decorations.

In addition, these decorative elements have increased heat resistance. They will last for a long period without losing their original beauty.
When choosing a tile for finishing a fireplace, you should pay special attention to its size. Naturally tiles large sizes it is mounted very quickly, but it is more difficult to adjust it to the size of shelves and niches.
Small dimensions are easier to mount in this regard, but the cladding work will take much longer.
Particular attention should be paid to the acquisition of the adhesive mixture. It must be heat-resistant, flexible and provide a secure fit.
Facing work includes:

performance preparatory work, including cleansing and deepening of the seams. The old finish, if any, should be removed especially carefully;
leveling the surface. To do this, apply the adhesive mixture in an even layer and ensure it dries;
marking the surface of the fireplace;
installation of tiles, starting from the bottom. For this, glue is applied to the tiles. Further, the facing material is evenly placed on the base and tapped with a special rubber mallet. To create straight lines, it is recommended to use special plastic crosses, which can be purchased at a hardware store;
removing protruding glue. This must be done while it has not yet frozen, since then it will be very difficult to cope with such work;
providing time for the glue to completely dry;
rubbing joints with a paste-like mineral grout. It is recommended to fill the seams evenly; using a damp sponge, you need to level their surface;
time for the fireplace to dry;
covering seams special means, which will repel dirt, dust.

You can wall the fireplace at any time of the year, but it is best to do it from spring to autumn.

The use of special finishing tiles

Tiles allow you to create an original and unusually beautiful appearance of the fireplace. They can be applied in various shapes and sizes. Today, in specialized stores, glossy and matte decorative elements, with a printed pattern and monochromatic, with an embossed and even surface, are presented for selection. Externally, the tiles resemble tiles, but their reverse side has a special box-shaped ledge - a rump. In addition to creating the most beautiful appearance, tiles contribute to an increase in the heat transfer coefficient of the fireplace and a longer heat retention.

Step 1
Prepare the material by carefully examining it. Tiles from the same manufacturer may differ in appearance. Next, you should arrange the finishing elements, folding them into a beautiful harmonious pattern.
Step 2
Measure the trommel on each element and, if necessary, adjust it to the same size.
Step 3
Smooth the surface and apply the mortar.
Step 4
Fasten the elements with wire. To fix it on the surface of the fireplace, the trommel should be filled with a mixture of clay and pieces of brick, combined in equal proportions. Insert a tiller into the holes, as a rule, a wire with a diameter of no more than 5 mm is used for this. The edges of the wire should be bent upward. Place the finished tile in the original drawing and press it to the surface. Hide the ends of the wire in the solution.

The use of wood - natural and sophisticated

Facing a fireplace with your own hands using natural wood is an easy task. This natural material makes it very easy to create sophisticated designs. Any species are suitable for finishing, but still it is worth giving preference to strong and hardy wood. It is not the main decoration. With the help of wooden elements, for example, you can give a plastered product a special touch of nobility. Wooden shelves will decorate any fireplace and are ideal for the interior of the room. For the use of natural wood, it is recommended to use special heat-resistant impregnations. They will allow the natural material not to react to high temperature readings. Also, the tree can be treated with special paints and varnishes to give it a perfect look.
Whichever method of decoration is preferred, it is worth taking care of creating a harmonious design for the entire room. After all, the fireplace is part of the room, exquisitely complementing it, providing comfort and coziness.

Fireplace cladding options

In fact, there are not so many options for facing fireplaces. Indeed, in each specific case, far from any material can be applied. Here, the first place becomes the condition of functioning at a high temperature, not all components can tolerate it, especially over a long time. Therefore, this issue should be approached carefully. With a decorative structure, you can use any material at all, but with the current one, think about the fuel that you will use, because different types fuels produce different combustion temperatures. The place of installation is also important. If the fireplace is located in a room without heating, or summer kitchen, it should be lined with a material that tolerates air humidity well.

Before choosing how and what to tile the fireplace, you should look at photos and videos on this topic and decide on the design. Also, many may pay attention to the installation method, you can entrust this business to a company, but keep in mind that, most likely, this work will not be cheap. Having made the cladding with your own hands, you will significantly reduce the cost of work and the entire structure.

What kind of cladding is suitable for a fireplace?

Plastering the fireplace

This is a fairly traditional method, suitable for both stoves and fireplaces.

The use of decorative plaster in the decoration of the fireplace

Usually, such a finish is done with cement mortar, but decorative plaster can also be used, it is more suitable for artificial portals. But with this material you can make almost any pattern and give the portal the desired color.
This type of finish is quite easy to do with your own hands.
With the right cladding, you get a durable structure that will last for more than a dozen years.

Attention: Such finishing is performed only after complete drying of the fireplace masonry and shrinkage of the entire structure. Salt is sometimes added to the solution, it increases the service life of the plaster and significantly strengthens the surface.

It is best to apply a layer of plaster on a warm surface. Heat the fireplace and let it cool down. Now apply the first coat using the spray method. Before starting work, moisten the fireplace and then the mortar will dry out most evenly, which will exclude the formation of cracks.
The last layer is applied to a completely dried surface with a different tool, the layer thickness should not exceed 5 cm.

Plasterboard finishing

Listing the types of fireplace claddings should be overlooked and plasterboard trim. This material is great for decorative and electrical construction, but not suitable for a working fireplace.

Option of finishing the fireplace with plasterboard

Installation of such material is done on a metal frame.

Attention: When making the frame, special attention should be paid to its correct configuration. Check it carefully, otherwise the fireplace will have an irregular geometric shape. Use a plumb line and square.

Drywall sheets are fastened with self-tapping screws, you should not fasten them end-to-end, always leave a gap of 5 mm. After that, the seam is putty and the joint is glued with tape, which must first be moistened in a gypsum solution. By doing this, you will avoid deformation of the surface when heated.

Finishing with artificial and natural stone

Such cladding is quite sophisticated and looks stylish and rich. It can be used for almost any kind of fireplace - it perfectly withstands high temperatures.

The work uses natural and artificial stone. The cost of the first option is much higher, and if you want to save money, feel free to choose the second one. You will end up with a sturdy structure that will last for more than a dozen years.

We use natural stone for finishing the fireplace

Attention: When using such a material, special attention should be paid to the preparation of the base surface. It must be done flawlessly. This will largely determine the quality and service life of the entire structure.

Any options for facing a fireplace with a stone can be performed in any room, it will not be affected by high humidity and temperature extremes. Only if you will use a decorative stone, when buying, you should pay attention to the parameters of the elements. In the instructions, pay attention to the cycles of temperature changes. This value should not be less than ten.
If you plan to use solid fuel when burning, then the masonry is done on clay mortar. Cement will not withstand combustion temperatures for a long time.
Before starting the installation, you should properly and efficiently prepare the surface. After complete drying, apply a primer, it will strengthen the bonding of surfaces.
When attaching heavy elements, always use metal hooks, they can support the weight of the parts, otherwise they may simply float in the solution.
Never do the laying right away without trying on the details. First, they are laid out on the surface in a row and carefully adjusted using a grinder. And only after that it is possible to do the fastening on the mortar.
The corners should always be checked with a square and a plumb line. And the order is checked by the building level, its length must be at least one meter. Remember, a deviation of 1 mm can turn out to be 1 cm inaccuracy after five rows.
With the use of this material, you will not have the question of how to veneer the fireplace insert, the stone is perfectly used in any material for the manufacture and decoration of the fireplace. In addition, it looks stylish and original.

Fireplace tiling

This material is most popular when decorating a fireplace. Moreover, both decorative and active. The following types are most often used in decoration:

Majolica;
Terracotta;
Porcelain stoneware;
Clinker tiles.

We use tiles to decorate the fireplace

Such a finish successfully tolerates temperature extremes and high humidity, so the cladding can be done in a bath room as well. For high-quality fastening, you should heed the advice of experts and follow some requirements.

Prepare the surface thoroughly and efficiently. It should be completely cleaned, the seams should be deepened by 1 cm, this will allow the material to hold well.
Before starting installation, be sure to sort the tiles by their size. Make two packs. One of them will have the largest number of elements, and it is with it that work should be started.
Make a full floor layout, full size. Try on a row and fit the elements well, for this use a grinder. And only after that should be done with mortar.
During operation, the solution may get on the face of the tile; it should be removed immediately. After a while, it eats into the surface, and then it will be much more difficult to remove stains.
During the laying, the mortar will get into the seam, it should be removed with the corner of the trowel, otherwise, after drying, you can simply break the tile while cleaning.

Now you know what fireplaces will be coated with, instructions for fastening almost any material are on our website. The most important thing is to take your time and do everything neatly in accordance with the instructions, and soon you will be able to admire your beautiful new fireplace!

Video: examples of decorating a fireplace with your own hands

Fireplace ... At the mere mention of this word, it immediately breathes with warmth and comfort. The fireplace can become the center of the living room, a place where you can calmly and quietly spend winter evenings. Today, not only owners of country houses can afford such a pleasure - for ordinary apartments there are false fireplaces that perfectly imitate real hearths, and electric fireplaces. When we move from dreams to the implementation of plans, a lot of questions arise. One of them is decorative trim fireplace. We figure out what materials can be used for facing the fireplace, and what the choice depends on.

What should be the facing of the fireplace?

all old cladding, if any, is removed;
in order to increase adhesion, it is better to embroider the seams of the masonry to a depth of 0.7-1 cm. A chisel or a screwdriver is suitable for scraping the solution;
it is better to seal the cracks with a heat-resistant sealant;
if the walls of the fireplace are relatively flat (the height differences and the depth of the depressions do not exceed 5 mm), then you can moisten the brick and proceed to applying plaster. For more significant irregularities, reinforcement with a reinforcing mesh will be required. It is attached to a brick of masonry, on the caps of which metal washers are put on;
before starting work, it is better to heat the fireplace so that the brick acquires the dimensions that will be characteristic of the fireplace. If the base is not warm, then the plaster may crack at the first fire;
the ready-made plaster solution is applied with a spatula and leveled along the beacons. It is recommended to apply at least two layers of plaster, and each subsequent layer is applied after the previous one has completely dried. The finishing layer can be leveled with a spatula. You can create a certain relief on it.

For additional decor, you can use paints... Silicon, which is good up to high temperatures, are best suited. The hearth can be painted monotonously or certain patterns can be drawn on it - it all depends on imagination, skills and interior design.

No. 6. Facing with tiles

Tiles are, in fact, the same terracotta tiles or majolica. The difference lies in the special structure. The tiles have a rump, a square hollow protrusion with which the tiles are attached during the installation process. Rumpa is also important for another purpose - it helps to keep warm. Tiles can be used to decorate the fireplace only during its laying. If the moment is missed, then you will have to choose a different finishing method.

Tiles offer the same benefits as tiles. The choice of colors is huge, there are very exquisite samples that will bring a special chic to the interior.

Installation of tiles is carried out in this way:

½ a trommel is filled with a mixture of clay and broken bricks; crutch, thick (5 mm in diameter) wire with a bend at the top;
a flexible soft wire is attached in the middle of the crutch, which will later be embedded in the brickwork;
the rump is filled to the brim with a clay mixture;
as the masonry progresses, tiles are mounted, the wire is hidden in the seam. Individual parts are connected to each other by U-shaped brackets.

It is difficult to do such an installation with your own hands, which makes setting up a fireplace a more expensive pleasure. In addition, the material itself is more expensive than conventional tiles.

No. 7. Fireplace cladding with wood

Probably, to many people this method of cladding may seem impossible, because it is no secret to anyone that the tree is very afraid of fire. Nevertheless, under certain rules you can decorate the hearth with warm and cozy wood - such a fireplace will look great in living rooms made in classic style... Wood is an aesthetic, durable and natural material with a special scent. To enjoy these benefits, you will have to comply with a number of conditions:

No. 8. Fireplace plasterboard

Drywall is often used to decorate electric fireplaces. The material allows create any shape for the hearth... Actually, thanks to this opportunity, it has become so widespread. The main advantages of the method include low cost, simplicity mounting(only the lazy today does not know how to work with drywall) and, of course, a wide scope for imagination. The cons are the need for additional decorative finishing and the complexity in terms of ensuring the safety of the structure.

The principle of work looks like this:

Do not forget that you can always combine several materials.

When it comes to, from which, if heat comes, it is only insignificant, you can use any materials you like.

Large manufacturers of solid fuel heating equipment offer complete sets - stove / casing / cladding. The purchase of a finished cladding solves the problems with the decoration of the fireplace. Also, designs are offered where the facing of the fireplace insert can be made independently.

What can be used to overlay a fireplace insert

Decorating a fireplace insert with your own hands is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. To carry out the work, you will need to choose a suitable facing material and, during finishing, follow the existing rules.

When selecting a heat-resistant facing material, several nuances are taken into account:

Material cost.
Complexity of installation.
Thermal characteristics.

The choice of facing is also influenced by the specifics of the work: the amount of "wet mud" inevitable when finishing with natural stone, the speed of finishing. Appearance is also important.

Modern refractory materials for cladding are designed to make the work as easy as possible. Plasterboard structures, artificial stone, allow finishing the cladding within 7-10 days. Finishing with natural stone is much more time consuming. It is recommended that the cladding be done by a qualified bricklayer.

Theoretically, it is possible to operate the firebox without cladding. But, the walls emit hard infrared radiation. During the burning of wood, the body heats up almost red-hot, therefore, it is easy to get burned.

Brick cladding

Brick cladding of a fireplace insert is one of the most popular finishing solutions. You can decorate the interior in the loft style. For work, use ceramic and facing bricks. The use of clinker is allowed.

To properly brick a fireplace insert, follow several rules:

Before starting finishing, rejection is performed. The brick is checked for size. The joint seams should be perfectly straight.
Between the firebox and the masonry, a mandatory gap is left for the circulation of warm air. In the masonry, convection holes are provided for the entry of hot air masses into the room.
The heating temperature of the brick lining is much lower than that inside the firebox. Therefore, it is better to overlay the fireplace cassette with ordinary ceramic facing bricks. The use of clinker is allowed.
To make the seams even, follow the recommendations for working with facing bricks. The rows are laid on square glazing beads, with a section of 1 cm.
All overflows of mortar and dirt are removed with a dry cloth.

Brick, relatively easy to install. Brick wall is a good emitter. Having gained warmth, ceramics remain warm for a long time and evenly heats the room. Modern bricks are made in a wide range of colors, with an even and structured surface.

Facing with foam blocks

Another common solution is the lining of the firebox with aerated concrete.

The advantage of cladding is the speed of work.
The disadvantage is the need for additional finishing and insufficient structural strength, requiring reinforcement.

Non-combustible wall aerated concrete blocks, revet or plaster after the completion of the masonry. Is applied decorative plaster, or revetted with clinker or ceramic tiles, installation of natural and artificial stone is allowed.

Facing with plasterboard or gypsum plasterboard

Plasterboard finish, suitable for self-made portal. The principle of manufacturing metal structures allows you to make any, even the most complex and daring decisions. Both classic and non-standard portals are made of drywall.

An analogue with a high degree of fire resistance is gypsum fiber board or gypsum fiber boards. GVL does not burn, therefore it provides the necessary safety.

Facing with gypsum fiber sheets has its own characteristics associated with certain difficulties during further facing. The composition of the boards contains small fibers that prevent sufficient adhesion of the putty mixture and adhesives. Before facing, GVL boards are treated with a primer. Pre-apply a thin layer of glue, putty, pressing it into the surface.

Plasterboard and gypsum fiber boards are inexpensive cladding methods. After sheathing the metal structure, the plates are finished with putty, textured plaster or ceramic, clinker tiles.

Stone cladding

Premium fireplaces are trimmed with natural stone. It turns out to be massive ready product... An increase in the load on the surface of the floor and floor slabs must be taken into account when finishing.

Stone cladding is performed in several ways:

Facing the fireplace insert with marble- in fact, not a solid stone is used for decoration, but slabs made in the sawing process. Marble pieces weigh less than natural wild stone. Plates are used for facing bricks, aerated concrete and plasterboard structures.
Granite is more expensive than marble. The rest has similar characteristics.
Wild Stone - Cobblestone is offered in different fractions and sizes. River stone with rounded shapes is popular.

Natural stone is not suitable for self-finishing... Masonry requires professionalism and accuracy of the master.

Some companies offer ready-made, quick-fit cladding kits. The set is purchased together with the fireplace insert. Finishing is carried out independently and takes a little time. Manufacturers offer detailed instructions for the installation of cladding.

Rules for finishing the fireplace insert

Correct installation of the cladding requires not only an elementary understanding of the process, but also compliance with the basic rules of finishing related to the peculiarity of the fireplace insert. Among other things, you need to take care of the following measures:

Prepare a solid foundation- required when facing the combustion chamber with natural stone. The weight of the structure reaches several centners, which should be foreseen at the stage of building design. When facing with foam block, drywall, the increase in load is insignificant.
Fire protection- the firebox is installed on a protected floor surface. Floor cladding in front of the firebox is allowed using any non-combustible materials: ceramic tiles, sandstone, etc. If the fireplace insert is installed in wooden house, necessarily provide for fire breaks.

To prevent fire, in the manufacture of the cladding frame, the minimum gap between the firebox and the cladding is observed.

What is the gap between the firebox and the cladding

The gap between the firebox and the fireplace cladding is necessary for many reasons:

The clearance serves for unobstructed air circulation. If you fill the gap with sand or cover it with heat-insulating material, the efficiency of the fireplace will decrease.
The gap is necessary to avoid deformation of the finishing material. For cladding, not an oven brick, but a facing brick, which has low heat resistance rates, is used. Compliance with the gap will prevent overheating and, as a result, cracking of the material.
If drywall is used, the required clearance will prevent possible fire.

PPB standards regulate the minimum distance between the firebox and the cladding made of non-combustible material, 100 mm. If you plan to lay a layer of basalt wool, the convection gap between the insulation and the fireplace is reduced to 60 mm.

What is better to glue the cladding

The adhesive composition for cladding is chosen, depending on the finishing material. As a rule, manufacturers indicate the type and type of glue on the product packaging. Granite and marble tiles, fixed with a two-component adhesive, which ensures the most durable adhesion to the surface. The composition is heat-resistant.

Facing with artificial stone requires the use of a special one-part tile adhesive. The material must be thermally stable and capable of withstanding temperatures up to 200 ° C.

For natural stone, dry formulations with the addition of clay are used. Laying on a self-prepared clay composition is allowed. Seams are painted over with grout.

Thermal insulation materials

Thermal insulation under the cladding is used in cases where it is planned that the fireplace insert serves exclusively as a decorative element, and not as a source of heating in the house. rules fire safety stipulate the minimum requirements for insulating materials that are allowed to be used for this purpose. These include:

Slight hygroscopicity- the material must not absorb moisture. During the heating and cooling process, condensation will inevitably evolve. If moisture accumulates inside the insulation, it leads to the loss of the basic properties of the material.
High melting point- mineral and basalt insulation, made by heating the rock to the melting temperature. From the fibers obtained, cotton wool is made. The initial melting point indicates how much thermal stress the material will be able to withstand.

As practice shows, it is the basalt insulation that provides the optimal price-quality ratio.

Exists different options finishing of fireplace inserts. Some types of cladding are easy to do on your own, while others require the involvement of professional finishers. When choosing, take into account the cost of the material, the speed of work and other nuances that directly affect the final result and the appearance of the cladding.

In country houses, fireplaces have always been very popular designs. In any case, any owner thought about building a fireplace in his room. Someone built a real one, someone is limited to a false version - this is already a matter of taste. After all, the days have already passed when, among other things, fireplaces performed an important function of heating the living space.

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

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

Materials for the construction of fireplaces

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

So, in a private house for construction use:

Gas blocks;
Foam blocks;
Brick.

Such building materials are good for their fire resistance. They respond well even to very high temperatures - that's why they are chosen.

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

Also, in construction actively use such solutions:

If there are no options, you can always use white brick. In this case, the decorative finish of the fireplace can also be made with bricks. The master can use bricks of different shades - there is nothing complicated about it. It's just that certain special coloring substances are added to the concrete solution - the result is impressive;
When a structure is built from aerated concrete or foam blocks, it's time to think about how to decorate the fireplace, because without special cladding it will not look the best. The materials are excellent, they keep the heat perfectly, but in aesthetic terms, there is something to work on.

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

The craftsman should also remember that fireplaces usually have a chimney. In case you make a false construction, this element is decorative, so anyone can handle it. But if the fireplace is real, you will not be able to do without a high-quality and working chimney. Removing combustion products is vital;
For the construction of the chimney, the same brick is used - 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, of high quality
Building fireplaces from natural stone is a costly task, but if you have funds, this is an excellent option.

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

Features of fireplace inserts (interior decoration)

If you are interested in how you can decorate a fireplace, you should also learn about something else: what is a firebox. By the fireplace, this is the place where solids burn - it can be wood, coal or some other fuel. The decorative finish of the fireplace also includes work with the firebox, but more on that below.

To finish this part of the structure, use today:

Brick;
Drywall sheets;
Natural stone.

Plasterboard cladding

You can actually use sheets of drywall to sheathe 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. It may be necessary to use drywall if it is necessary to level the surface in the firebox;
Only a special material can be used in works of this level - moisture resistant drywall. It is not recommended to use any other here;
In the process of work, it is also worth paying attention - if such material is used, the volume of the firebox can significantly decrease. This is because the sheets are attached to a frame (of course, metal). It is made on the surface from a special profile.

What is used for to execute assembly work :

The material is needed directly;
Metal profile;
Screwdriver and self-tapping screws.

And now in detail about the installation:

In the course of work, some difficulties may arise - especially their probability is high when there are places in the fireplace that are difficult to access. That is why it is recommended to work with a screwdriver (a tool that functions with rechargeable batteries);
A plasterboard fireplace insert is usually sheathed when the size of the firebox needs to be reduced - to a large extent. This happens when the fireplace is large - and the owner wants to fix the situation;
If you decide to use sheets of such material, it is important to think over the interior decoration in advance - so that the material can be protected from the destructive effects of fire and high temperatures.

They will definitely help you with this.:

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

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

We use brick

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

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

Such materials are:

Wood;
Drywall that is not fire resistant.

A chimney is laid out of bricks, 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.

Facing with ceramic tiles

If the decorative finish 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, they are attached only to that surface that is flat (usually on drywall, we have already figured out above that its installation is not such a difficult task).

You can easily install ceramic tiles if you have:

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

Features of the use of ceramic tiles:

The material is highly fire resistant. To complete the installation efficiently, it is best to use a special construction glue or concrete mortar.

To make it look beautiful, the distance between the tiles must be even. It is for this that 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 (it can be of different colors - you can easily find the one you want). In general, nothing complicated - and the result will be great.

Decorative external finishing of fireplaces

Since fireplaces can be both real and exclusively decorative (they work with the help of certain electrical appliances), the finishing options are radically different. Of course, when the fireplace is just an imitation, there is a completely different approach to the facing process.

What kind materials for finishing fireplaces and stoves can be used? Here is a list:

Glass;
Wood;
Marble;
Porcelain stoneware;
Drywall;
Decorative stone;
Ceramic tiles;
Decorative bassoon.

Marble and exterior cladding

Decorating a fireplace with marble is an expensive but very beautiful and aesthetic solution. The design will acquire a really solid appearance - a great way for the owner to emphasize his high social position;
Today you can buy a completely finished cladding for fireplaces - there is a demand, which means you can easily find an offer. An order according to the required size is also possible with professionals;
The master can use the individual parts to assemble the cladding on his own.

Decorating a fireplace with marble is not an easy task. This process is time consuming, in addition, here it is worth remembering many subtleties and trifles.

For example:

Marble weighs a lot. Because of this, its installation on the wall is impossible if the surface was previously sheathed with plasterboard. However, this rule does not apply to those decorative elements that are provided to the buyer in a completely finished form;
It is customary to install such a natural stone on a brick or some other surface. For this, a concrete solution with various additives is used, or a specialized adhesive.

What properties does marble have? It is possible to note such:

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 badly to the effects of certain detergents, which contain abrasive particles.

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

Fireplace plasterboard outside

How to decorate a fireplace? Drywall? Quite a good option, especially since it occurs quite often. Especially when electric fireplaces are sheathed.

The whole process looks like that:

First, a frame is made with the help of profiles - drywall sheets are already fastened to it. After these sheets are plastered (this can help), then a fine finish is performed;
But here it is worth considering the following moment: the fireplace insert should also be coated with plasterboard;
A decorative stone or bassoon - these options look great from the outside. Installation of materials is very simple on the surface of the fireplace, especially if you use a specialized adhesive in your work.

Wood cladding, glass application

It's no secret that the tree is famous for its beautiful texture. To decorate a fireplace with such material is quite realistic; lining is perfect for this.

Installation of the material is possible on any surface - there would be a desire.

And for installation you need the following:

Screwdriver;
Self-tapping screws for wood;
Wooden blocks or planks;
The finishing material itself, without it anywhere.

Of course, it is permissible to use a lining made of wood only in external finishing works, because this material burns very easily.

To make the lining look aesthetically pleasing and the material will serve you as long as possible, it is recommended to apply a special varnish on its surface after the installation is completed.

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

Details about the use:

How can glass be used to decorate a fireplace? This is not so common - it is a fact. The fact is that this material can easily burst due to the high temperature - and in such a situation there is nothing surprising;
To prevent such a misfortune from happening, the decorative decoration of the fireplace with glass is made only with a special fired thermo-material that can withstand even exposure to direct fire or high temperatures;
Fireplace glass - interesting solution to create an aesthetic element for closing the firebox. Also, with its help interesting imitations of fireplaces are obtained (we are talking about false constructions). Such options look unusual, very original, they will decorate any interior, add zest to your room.

Application of porcelain stoneware

Such a finishing material is relatively recently chosen in order to decorate a fireplace. It is worth noting the following technical properties:

Porcelain stoneware does not burn;
It tolerates high temperature exposure well;
It is 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:

The finishing material is attached very easily, simply. The main thing is that the surface to be treated is even. It is best to level it with plaster, but drywall sheets can also be used;
Porcelain stoneware is mounted on the surface using a special adhesive. Since this material is chosen when decorative finishing of the fireplace is needed, it is made light even at the factory.

conclusions:

As you have already seen, you can decorate the fireplace with different materials, there are plenty of ways here. Watch the video on how professionals cope with such work - they definitely have a lot to learn.

Today, fireplaces mainly perform only a decorative function, equipping them to create coziness, appropriate atmosphere.