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A marble fireplace hearth in a modern but rustic living room

Fire Hearth

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Fireplace Hearths: The Perfect Blend of Function and Aesthetics for Your Home

Welcome to our collection of fireplace hearths, where functionality meets elegance. A hearth has been the centerpiece of homes for centuries, offering warmth and a cozy atmosphere to gather around. When selecting a fireplace, it's essential to choose the right hearth for both safety and aesthetics. Our guide will help you understand the importance of a hearth and the various materials available for your perfect fireplace setup.

Understanding Fire Hearths

At its core, a fireplace hearth is the floor of the fireplace. Traditionally, hearths are made of stone or brick and extend slightly into the room. The primary purpose of a hearth is to provide safety by creating a fire-resistant surface and a barrier between the fireplace and the floor.

Hearth Materials and Fireplace Types

The material of your hearth depends on the type of fireplace you have. Solid fuel-burning fireplaces require specific materials to withstand intense heat and prevent cracking. Our collection offers granite, marble, and slate hearths that cater to various fireplace types and preferences.

Slate Hearths

Slate hearths are versatile, suitable for gas and electric fires, and can be used for solid fuel-burning fireplaces. Slate hearths provide a deep matte grey or glossy jet black finish, depending on your preference. They offer a stylish alternative to granite hearths.

Micro Marble Hearths

Micro marble hearths, including perla stone, are suitable for specific gas fires and all electric fires. Micro marble is a man-made stone made from crushed marble mixed with resin, resulting in a strong, heat-resistant material with a similar appearance to marble. However, micro marble hearths are not suitable for solid fuel or high-efficiency gas fires.

Choosing the Right Hearth Size

The size of your hearth depends on your fireplace opening:

  1. For fireplace openings less than 6 sq ft, your hearth should extend 16 inches in front and 8 inches to the sides.
  2. For fireplace openings larger than 6 sq ft, your hearth should extend 20 inches in front and 12 inches to the sides.

The thickness of your hearth should also be considered. A 12mm thick hearth is suitable for fireplaces with heat output less than 100°C. For fireplaces with higher heat output, follow these guidelines:

  1. If your fireplace is on a combustible floor, such as wood, a 250mm thick hearth is required.
  2. For fireplaces on non-combustible floors, like concrete, the combined thickness of your floor and hearth should be at least 250mm.

Our collection offers a wide variety of sizes to accommodate your home's specific requirements.

Do Gas and Electric Fireplaces Need a Hearth?

While glass-front gas fires require a hearth, most electric fireplaces do not. However, hearths are still popular for aesthetic purposes or as an additional safety measure. A hearth can provide a traditional look and ensure a safe distance from hot materials that could cause burns.

Explore Our Collection of Fireplace Hearths

Discover our diverse range of fire hearths and find the perfect match for your home. Combining safety, functionality, and elegance, a well-chosen hearth can be the finishing touch that transforms your fireplace into a stunning focal point. Choose from our selection of high-quality granite, marble, and slate hearths to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your home.