Tiling fireplace: What and who to use?

[mikey24]

Hi

I've currently got a limestone hearth.

I want to tile over it with a slate tile ready for a multifuel stove, when I can afford it. Is a standard slate tile ok for a stove?

from topps.

Can I just go to any tiler for this job or someone that specialises in fireplaces? I don't want to get it done and find they've used all the wrong gear and the whole thing starts cracking and coming apart.

[diamondtiling]

Hi Mikey, welcome to the forum, Slate has been used in fireplaces over the years, I cant see it cracking from heat. So long as what it is being fixed to is sound it should be fine. I don't use topps myself any longer so I cant comment on the quality of their products. A competent tiler can fix the tiles and then you just get the stove and flue fitted, you might need a liner for the chimney.

[doug boardley]

mikey, why not spruce up the limestone hearth?? natural stone is far better looking than a ceramic/porcelain imitation (imo)

[mikey24]

Hi

Thanks for the replies.

The hearth wasn't sealed properly so has stains.

Aren't these slate tiles just natural stone? Did you mean you think it looks better with whole pieces of natural stone?

[diamondtiling]

I would not tile a stove area in 300x300 slate, different sizes look better IMO.
As Doug says limestone is so much nicer than slate, I am sure you can clean the stain, someone will tell you the name of a product but I am sure that Lithofin will do one. On one of my albums you will see a floor I did, the fire has been done with yorkshire stone that we cleaned up with a powerful jet wash. Its not being sealed as the customer wants a natural look to it.

[davy_G]

I tiles mine with 600 x 400 slate. Nice finish, doesnt show up any dirt.
Sealed them before and after with a good inpregnator.
Used 4 pieces and got them for next to nothing from my local tile shop.
Looks the ticket with the black stove
http://www.tilersforums.co.uk/attach...ce-after-3.jpg