Coating is a term that refers to an additional layer of material that is mounted as a protective layer over a pre-existing surface. Coating a surface is a process of giving an outer coating that can protect it from damage or change its appearance.
The most common use of cladding is external in the form of weather boards. These prevent homes from being damaged by the elements over time. However, the coating can also be internal. Apart from the kitchen and bathroom wall tile that protects against splashes, interior trim is mostly installed for aesthetic reasons.
When it comes to fireplace trim, most of the renovations are purely for aesthetic value. Covering the fireplace is a great way to instantly enhance a room’s decor because it provides a focal design point from which the rest of the style can emerge. Fireplace lining is extremely popular in Australian homes, with a mix of traditional and modern designs.
Traditional fireplace lining is made of solid materials such as brick or stone. However, modern fireplace cladding ideas are getting more creative as they become more popular with the use of metal, glass, steel, sandstone and even timber. There is also a flow of tiles and cladding as opposed to solid materials.
What should be considered when deciding on the fireplace lining?
Before installing the coating, you will need to determine if your foundation is heat resistant. A heat-resistant wall will be covered with drywall or some other type of heat-repellent material.
To test whether your wall is heat resistant, simply touch the wall while the fire is still running. If it’s warm, but not hot, it’s probably heat tolerant. If the wall is too hot to touch, you may want to reconsider the cladding as it can increase the risk of fire. Make sure any coating adhesive you use is non-flammable and heat resistant, especially if you plan to DIY.
Designer heating: 10 beautiful fireplace finish ideas for every size and style
10. Tiles
Where to buy: tile cloud
Estimated cost: $58/square meter
Tile is rapidly gaining popularity as a fireplace cladding option in modern Australian homes. It’s affordable, easy to install, and hundreds of styles are available. Anyone looking for fireplace tile in terms of patterns, textures and colors will have a hard time choosing. Browse Tile Cloud’s online catalog for an overview of a variety of traditional, contemporary, rustic and romantic tile designs.
09. Marble
Where to buy: Scots
Estimated cost: $3,000 – $6,000
Marble has a warm elegance that suits the fireplace aesthetics very well. Marble is also low-maintenance, which is handy when it comes to cleaning up ash and soot from a fire.
A marble mantel like the one featured at Schots is a great way to bring some refinement to your living room aesthetic without having to take up an entire wall. Marble is one of the most expensive finishing materials and is considered a luxury item worldwide.
08. Steel
Where to buy: Chazelles Fireplaces
Estimated cost: Communication for quote
Steel is another versatile material. It can be produced to mimic other finishes such as natural stone or wood. However, the surround of a raw steel fireplace has an industrial appeal that cannot be ignored.
Steel-look fireplaces create a contemporary brutalist elegance akin to polished concrete floors, exposed brick and architectural glass. It is the perfect decor choice for the bold modern designer.
07. Timber
Where to buy: Carter Holt Harvey
Estimated cost: $8 – $40 per square foot
Now, having a board this close to the flame can make anyone nervous. However, lumber is a safe material that can be used effectively in fireplace lining. Lumber is also very inexpensive, and you can even DIY an eco-friendly fireplace from reclaimed wood.
There are a few other concerns—for example, lumber must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening—but lumber is largely considered a safe fireplace lining material. The type of fire will also affect the level of risk, as electrical or gaseous non-combustible fires are much more compatible with wood siding than wood fires.
06. Dark brick
Where to buy: Melbourne Brick
Estimated cost: $0.87/brick
Charcoal brick and other vibrant brick colors stand out more in modern design schemes. Dark brick works well in small fireplaces and creates a moody and mysterious accent for the room without overwhelming the space.
05. Classic brick
Where to buy: Elephant Brick Company
Estimated cost: $125 per square foot
Classic brick is the most popular choice for a traditional looking fireplace. Red brick has been used for fireplaces since the 12th century.pearl century. Because brick can withstand high temperatures without conducting heat, it is an excellent choice for fireplace surrounds and construction.
04. Metal
Where to Buy: Australian Wright Metals
Estimated cost: Communication for quote
There are many options beyond steel when it comes to metal fireplace cladding. Blackened copper in particular is a beautiful metal fireplace option that allows for some stunning interior design features.
03. Sandstone
Where to buy: Sydney Sandstone
Estimated cost: $100-130 per square foot
Sandstone has an understated charm that fills a room with a sense of casual elegance. With its rough texture and large, asymmetrical pieces, sandstone has a sense of raw beauty that works well in coastal and minimal aesthetics.
02. Glass
Where to buy: Lopi Fireplaces
Estimated cost: $7,000 – $15,000
Decorative glass fireplaces are a relatively new development in fireplace technology, providing a sophisticated and futuristic aesthetic. Glass fireplaces allow you to watch the fire at any moment, taking advantage of the natural beauty of the flames. A way to connect with nature and feel almost like you’re camping – all in the comfort of your own home.
01. Stone fireplace surround
Stone veneer fireplaces are the most sought-after styles for a reason. Stone fireplaces have a holistic natural beauty that complements the rawness of a roaring fire. The double sized stone fireplace surrounded by comfortable armchairs will bring endless comfort and a slice of cottage life.