Natural Stone Fireplace – Multiple Possibilities and Advantages
Winter is not that far now and we can already anticipate those long evenings in front of a strong fire in the living room. A fireplace is a wonderful piece that can attract all the family around it, to share watching a movie or storytelling. And for the look, as well as the practical side, a natural stone fireplace is the best choice. Here are the advantages of natural stone face to other materials you can use for building a fireplace.
Options
There are several types of natural stone appropriate for building a fireplace.
Limestone is clean and simple with a more modern feel, while slate is incredibly durable with a rustic vibe.
Marble has a rich beauty that is impossible to replicate – and it can be honed or polished if you want a more formal look.
Granite is a great choice for any contemporary space, and it’s one of the hardest and strongest stones available.
If you prefer something dramatic, you can’t go wrong with a richly textured stone like quartzite.
Natural stone fireplace. Advantages
Heat retention
Natural stone absorbs, stores and radiates heat, so it can actually improve the efficiency of your home as the the warmth of a fire radiates throughout your space. Marble and limestone are particularly good at absorbing heat, while granite is particularly good at conducting heat. Basalt and soapstone are particularly good at storing heat and releasing it slowly over a long period of time.
Resistance and logevity
Natural stone is practically indestructible. Some stone surfaces can last many lifetimes without losing their luster, while others like limestone will weather beautifully over time. Plus natural stone can handle wear and tear without falling apart, and it’s extremely resistant to water damage and mold. That’s why people use stone in areas that take the most beating – like countertops, floors, bathrooms and fireplaces.
Low maintenance
Natural stone is exceptionally easy to maintain – simply give it a wipe with a cloth every now and then to keep it looking new. That said, some stones, like marble, are porous so you may want to consider sealing them to help prevent dirt or soot from settling in. Regardless of the type of stone you use, you’ll be able to spend your time enjoying it rather than trying to maintain it.
Credits: inhabitat.com
Photo credits: artisanfireplaces.co.uk, onthelevel1.com, dmsstudios.com, mantelsdirect.com, stonecontact.com
