Fireplace Facing: Give your Fireplace New Life

By: Johnathan Taylor



Fireplaces can really set the tone of a room, yet many homeowners just don't know what to do with them. This is a shame because using a fireplace as a focal point is an important part of decorating. If you ask these homeowners why they don't take advantage of the fireplace's presence and use it as a decorating element, they usually reply that the fireplace facing is not very attractive. Well, guess what? You can change the fireplace facing! Yep, you can give your fireplace and your room a major boost in the looks department.

There are a several things to think of when you decide to change your fireplace facing. First of all, what type of material will you use? There are countless options. If your fireplace is from the floor to the ceiling, that is a lot of area to cover. Consider what materials will look appropriate and will strike the right chord in the room. Do you have a rustic western theme or country cabin theme going in your room? Limestone, slate or river rocks are great options that can really play into that type of décor. Even southwestern themes can play into the rough rock look. But what if your budget does not allow real rock? Consider veneer facings that look like real rock but for the fraction of the price and weight.

If you are going for an elegant, classy look for your fireplace facing, marble, tile and brick options are plentiful. With a variety of colors and textures to choose from, you can perfectly match the room's ambiance. Plus, there is neutrality to these classic choices that would work well with almost any other décor as well.

Stucco and Venetian plaster brings a texture to your fireplace that is a throwback to the old days. Wood and decorative molding can be stained or painted to reflect the theme. Metal fireplace facing is an option as well. Sheets of metal flashing in stainless steel or copper are popular choices. Some people have scoured antique shopping districts for those old-time tin ceiling tiles. Many of them have fine detailing that offers a unique element to the room. These tin tiles could be refinished for a more polished look or left untouched for a homier feel.

Before you start prepping your area to replace the fireplace facing, you should consider your existing mantel. If you are please with it and have no plans to replace it, you will have to work around it. That means, the facing material you use has to be flexible or small enough to be installed between the mantel area and the firebox. Of course, if you have no mantel at the moment, you work will be that much easier!

When creating a budget for your fireplace facing replacement project, take into account your do-it-yourself status. Do you feel confident enough to handle the work yourself? If not, you will have to budget contract labor into your number crunching. Otherwise, your next step in the budgeting process is to price all of your materials and make sure you do not need any special tools. Just think, when all is said and done, you will have a new focal point in your room and you might actually use your fireplace - all thanks to a fireplace facing facelift!



Jon worked in construction for 10 years before starting his own local fireplace installation service 8 years ago. At his website, Jon will show you how his years of experience in the industry can help change your fireplace into the focal point of your home. To learn more about fireplace design ideas visit www.fireplacegate.com.