There is nothing to compare to genuine stone fireplace designs for your hearth. The rock solid appearance and characteristics speak of stability and strength. It is also a reminder of literally centuries of time where stone was used almost exclusively to construct a reliable place of heat for both temperature control and cooking. They have been and continue to remain popular all over the globe.
If you are considering stone for your fireplace, you'll want to take into account both the cost of the materials, as well as the labor and expertise of your stonemason. See if you can get 3 referrals for both a stone source and a stone mason. Ask for testimonials from customers. This will give you an idea of the reliability and quality of the people you may opt to hire. Also, make sure that a structural engineer (or similar professional) assesses your home structure to be certain it can bear the load of the stone without any danger of collapse.
Are you already in a home (either with or without a fireplace intact) and you're thinking about the possibility of stone fireplace design ideas for your hearth? if so, you have many options from which to choose!
If you live on a single level, your structural concerns will not likely be as serious. Still check with your local authorities, though - you'll want to be certain your project meets safety guidelines.
Faux Stone and Cultured Stone
Do you love the look of stone but dread the back-breaking labor and material charges that come with it? Then you will want to take a good look at cultured stone, or an artificial rock sometimes called "faux stone". Although actually a manufactured product, much of it is quite realistic looking. Plus, you'll find big savings over the cost of natural stone, plus the labor required to get it installed. Of course, you will still want to find a quality installer that has experience working with cultured stone.
There are several advantages when comparing cultured rock to natural rock for your fireplace such as cost and labor savings, as well as less concern over the issue of load on the structure of your home. But I caution you to ask your potential installer to show you some real live examples of work he has done for others. Here's why - I have seen cultured rock that is so realistic that I literally rapped on it with my knuckles to determine if it was actual stone or not. And I've seen other homes where the rock looked awfully "artificial" to me. I recommend that you look for some brands of cultured stone that you think look quite realistic, and also ask for referrals to a cultured rock "stonemason" who has a reputation for quality work and the customer base to prove it.
When you opt for cultured rock, don't worry that your options will be limited. It comes in all forms - big stones, granite, shale or slate looks - and in so many combinations you may find it mind-boggling!
My advice is to trek to some local shops to see some of the "rock" up close, and that you also search online to get a number of ideas of what kinds of designs appeal to you. Keep a notebook and folder of stone fireplace design photos and ideas, and jot down the location (either web address or company) of each. Noting the cost as well will also be helpful as you reflect back on your options and compare those with your budget. Keeping all of your ideas in one place will keep your mind at ease in knowing that you are remembering all that you wanted to consider for your design. It can prevent that feeling of anxiety that you've forgotten about something you saw somewhere.
Enjoy your research, idea gathering, and decision-making processes, and allow yourself to imagine what relaxation and beauty your new fabulous fireplace will bring to your hearth and home!
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