What do I need to consider when choosing a material?

 Micro marble is a man-made material, created from combining 95% marble powder and 5% resin. They tend to come with an option of polished or honed/matt finish and are usually lower in price than natural stones. They also come in a large variety of colours/patterns. Not recommended for High Efficiency Fires/ high kW output. 

Natural Marble has an array of different colours, warm or cool tones and each fireplace will be unique. It is an unpredictable yet beautiful stone with a high quality strength and finish. Natural Marble is often one of the more expensive materials. Suitable for High Efficiency Fires/ high kW output.

Limestone can come in a variety of tones and patterns i.e. Veined Limestone, and is one of the most affordable natural materials for fireplaces. Due to being a Natural Stone each fireplace will have unique markings. 

Suitable for High Efficiency Fires/ high kW output.

Granite is often available in black/greys or beige/browns and is extremely durable/ hard-wearing. Granite is extremely popular for solid fuel fires as it does not absorb ash/discolour, whereas limestone being more porous for example will discolour over time. Granite is often a fair priced natural stone and can be polished or honed. 

Slate is also often black/dark in colour. It can be smooth or textured i.e. Riven Slate (as shown). Slate is tough and durable but can scratch/mark more easily than Granite, especially if smooth. Slate is also popular for Solid fuel fires again for its dark colouring and natural expansion to high temperatures. Slate is often lower in price than Granite. 

Cast Iron has been around for centuries and creates a truly classic feature. These are most popular with Solid Fuel or Gas inserts but can also be paired with any inset fire style. Cast Iron fireplaces can come a complete suite, paired with tiled inserts or within a stone mantel. Check out our fireplace collection for ideas. 

Timber/Natural Wood fireplaces are still widely popular within the fireplace industry. Available in a wide variety of colours and textured finishes these fireplaces are often very customisable. They are able to incorporate fine detailing. Suitable for all fuel types however have a minimum distance required for Gas or Solid Fuel fires due to their combustible nature.  It is often paired with a stone back panel and hearth.