As winter approaches, many homeowners are looking for ways to improve their fireplace experience. One way to do that is by installing a new fireplace hearth! There are many different styles and materials to choose from, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for your home. In this blog post, we will outline the different hearth styles and materials available in 2022. We will also discuss the benefits of each style and material, so you can make an informed decision!

Hearth Materials – Slate, Limestone or Granite?

When it comes to fireplace hearths, available from the likes of Primethorpe Paving, there are three main materials to choose from: slate, limestone and granite. Each of the materials have their own unique benefits that make it ideal for different situations. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

Slate fireplace hearths – They are very durable and heat resistant as they are made from premium-grade slate which is imported directly from Brazil. Slate hearths are available in a dark-grey/black colour which is incredibly popular for use in a fireplace, but you can also opt for a cool-grey slate which adds a bit of light to the space. Slate hearths are very robust, and if you choose to seal the material they will last for years, if not decades, to come.

Limestone fireplace hearths – Limestone hearths are also made from natural stone, but they are slightly softer than slate. This makes them less durable, but more affordable. Limestone hearths are available in a deep, almost jet-black colour so are perfect for creating the warm-effect you want from a roaring fireplace.

Granite fireplace hearths – The premium natural stone option. These hearths are formed from cooled volcanic rock so are incredibly hard and durable. As a result, they are more difficult to quarry and cut-to-size, and are therefore more expensive. But they truly are an amazing option.

Hearth Styles – T-Shape, Rectangular or Corner?

Now that you know the different fireplace hearth materials available, it’s time to choose a style! There are three main fireplace hearth styles: t-shape, rectangular and corner. Each style has its own benefits and suits a different style of project, so there is something for every situation. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

T-shape fireplace hearths – These hearths are ideal if you want to create a more traditional fireplace look. The T-shape has a rectangular section that sits and fills the fireplace recess itself, but also has a “wing” section at the front which protrudes into the room. These are the most common and most traditional style hearth.

Rectangular fireplace hearths – Rectangular fireplace hearths are a popular choice as they are easy to clean and maintain and perfect for simpler projects. If you don’t like the idea of a wing protruding into a room, you can opt for a rectangular hearth to sit flush into the recess providing a more modern look to your fireplace. They are also the best option for a free-standing burner.

Corner fireplace hearths – Corner fireplace hearths are perfect for small spaces as they make use of unused corner space. They are less common, but where you are limited for space, a corner hearth could be a perfect option.

Finish Your Hearth in Style – Chamfered Edges, Bullnosed Edges or Straight Cut Edges?

Once you’ve chosen your fireplace hearth material and style, it’s time to finish it off with a stylish edge! There are three main fireplace hearth edges: chamfered edges, bullnosed edges and straight cut edges.

Chamfered edges – Chamfered edges are created by cutting the stone at an angle and simply shaves away the sharp corner that is present on a straight-cut edge. This creates a more traditional fireplace hearth look.

Bullnosed edges – Bullnosed edges are created by rounding the edges of the fireplace hearth. This gives the fireplace hearth a softer, more modern look.

Straight cut edges – Straight cut edges are just that, straight! This is the most common fireplace hearth edge as it is easy to create and maintain and comes as standard on most natural stone hearths.

Now that you know the different fireplace hearth styles, materials and finishes available, you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you! So what are you waiting for?