Archive for the ‘Stone’ Category
Working With Your Stacked Stone Fireplace
October 6th, 2009 | 
Author: For this project you will be using pre-cast stone to build your stacked stone fireplace masterpiece. It’s going to look great!
The stacked stone pre-cast is actually a light weight veneer and they look just like the real thing. These pre-cast stones will make a dramatic difference to your room giving it a refreshing facelift.
Manufactured stone is made from a light weight aggregate, iron oxide pigment, and cement combination. Because it is man made there is terrific variety to choose from which includes river rock, stacked stone, steamed stones, random stones, limestone, and even ledge stones. So no matter what the décor of your room there is a rock that will compliment your room.
Here are some tips for working with your stacked stone fireplace:
1. Start by preparing your work area. A prepared area will make your job go smoother and it will ensure that your job has no errors.
2. Mix your mortar until it’s the perfect consistency – not too dry and not too wet. Pay attention because the key to a great install is the mortar.
3. Lay the stones out on the floor like a jig saw puzzle then pick which stones you want to put where. Remember to use plenty of contrast. Light against dark, big against small.
4. Put the stones up with a nice variety to get a natural feel and a look that is just like true rock.
5. You will need to determine how much stone you will need. Measure your surface area to determine the square footage. Don’t skimp. You’ll regret it. Instead order a little extra to give you the flexibility you need.
6. Most manufacturers have an excellent in stock selection of the more standard stones like the river rock but if you are going for something a little more exotic like castle stone you should anticipate extra delivery time and you should also order a little extra to make sure you don’t run short and then run into trouble matching up.
7. Besides your pre-fab stones you will need a moisture resistant barrier and you will need a metal lath for the mortar to adhere to.
8. You’ll need a few special tools to get the job done. A Mason trowel, Finishing trowel, ½” tuck pointer, grout bag, and a circular saw.
9. You will need to take off any existing trim that’s around the fireplace and the weatherproof barrier needs to be put up to keep the moisture away from the mortar. Use a stapler or hammer and nails to fasten.
10. You will want to make sure the nails are into the studs by at least 1 inch. Tape the edge and cover the fireplace opening with plastic to protect it while you work.
Working with your stacked stone fireplace doesn’t have to be that difficult as long as you take some time to plan before jumping into your project and these 10 tips will definitely keep you on the right track.
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Stone Fireplace Surround
I decided to opt for a natural stone fireplace surround for my new fireplace. The fireplace in question is one that will reside in the great hall portion of my home. Technically, it is a replacement fireplace, as a very small brick fireplace was built into the wall in the great hall originally.
I played around with different stone material idea for a while to get a feel for which kind of stone would be most appealing and fit into the other décor. Though I really like the look of marble and limestone, I finally decided that a slate stone fireplace surround would be the best match for the darker décor of the great hall.
With the help of a skilled carver, i designed the basic layout of the fireplace and hearth. I wanted to have a large seating area in a semi-circle shape all around the slate fireplace that would extrude from the wall.
Since the fireplace in the great hall is not merely decoration, but will be used to heat that entire portion of the house as well, I decided that an extruding firebox made much more sense, as this would allow the fire’s heat to radiate much farther than a firebox flush with the wall ever could.
It was very interesting to watch the craftspeople work away at the slate slabs. I watched as they first installed the massive firebox. This was a custom job in itself, as the outward curving shape I wanted is not a standard firebox shape at all.
The existing flue and chimney were able to be used, with a few minor alterations. I was glad to hear this, as the project was already going to be quite costly. I didn’t pay as much attention during these processes, as I was impatient to see the slate pieces put in place.
The preparation and structural work took more than a week to complete and I was becoming a little impatient to see the pretty slate pieces put in place as the stone fireplace surround. Finally, during week two of this project, the skilled craftspeople began to implement the fine slate pieces into the stone fireplace surround and accompanying mantel and seating area.
It wasn’t long before the project was complete. I don’t think they worked any faster at this point, but since I could see the progress it seemed to go much faster than the previous portions had. Once they had finished the stone fireplace surround, they began work on the seating area.
I wanted a very rough, chunky and natural look to both the surround and the seating area. As I saw the slate unfolding around me, I was very glad that I’d decided on the rough look for the slate. It was even more beautiful than what I had originally envisioned.
It’s been a few years now since the slate fireplace was installed and we continue to enjoy its stately presence and radiant heat. It has certainly become a central focal point for our family, which is great, as I was growing tired of the kids circulating around the television.
Installing A Stone Fireplace Questions
Fireplaces have been a part of the home for ions. A warm hearth is a symbol of a happy home and the modern fireplace creates a feeling of warmth and it is ever so inviting, plus it can increase the value of your home. But there are some questions you should ask before installing a stone fireplace.
1. Wood or Gas?
Wood is traditional, quaint, and creates a wonderful ambiance as the logs crackle and pop and the flames dance. What a feeling. Problem is there is also the mess of wood and the smoke to contend with and a wood fire can be hard to start if the wood isn’t dry.
Gas on the other hand is affordable and convenient. Flick the switch and sit back and enjoy and in recent years those gas logs have taken on a very authentic appearance. In fact it’s often difficult to tell gas from wood.
2. Ventless or Vented?
In the gas models you can choose from ventless or vented. The ventless is much easier to install but the blue flame is not as natural looking and they also produce condensation. A vented model looks much more realistic with a yellow flame. They do however require a professional installation.
3. Natural Gas or Propane Gas?
When choosing a gas fireplace you need to buy for the type of gas in your home. Natural gas comes by pipe into your home and propane is delivered by tank.
4. Heat Source or Cosmetics?
Is your fireplace going to be for cosmetics or as a functional heat source? You can have a functional heat source that looks great with no problem and overall this is a great option.
5. Freestanding or Built In?
What is the look you want to achieve in your room? The traditional style is built into the wall and is surrounded by a mantle. A freestanding stove can look very quaint and it can also be a terrific heat source on four sides.
6. Where Does It Go?
Just a decade ago you would find a fireplace in a living room or family room perhaps a bedroom. But today there are fireplaces to fit bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, offices, and basements. So where is it going to go?
7. In or Out?
Not long ago it was assumed if you were putting a fireplace in it would be in your home. But today there are some great fireplaces designed for decks, patios, and anywhere outside where people gather.
8. Budget Anyone?
A good place to start is with your budget. Decide what you’ve got to spend then go shopping within that budget. It’s a much smarter way to shop then looking at a bunch of great pieces you can’t afford. Setting a budget is also smart shopping so that you don’t land up buying on impulse.
Before you install your stone fireplace ask yourself these questions. Then when you make that final decision you’ll know you’ve purchased the perfect fireplace!
How To Build A Mexican Rock Fireplace
The backyard has truly become an extension of the home. More and more people are incorporating it into their entertainment space. Why not start with learning to build a Mexican rock fireplace.
Start by deciding what style of rock fireplace best suits your décor. Are you looking for formal, ranch, contemporary, casual, or perhaps Spanish? A higher fireplace looks better with a formal style while a more causal style looks better lower.
This informal style is a great choice and it’s perfect if you are planning to do some entertaining. The lower height means the children can enjoy it too. Why not let them have some fun roasting marshmallows or roasting hot dogs?
Installation of rock fireplace would cost around $2000 after all it’s a rather difficult install. But if you are at all a handyman you might consider installing it yourself. So let’s get started.
1. Lay The Foundation
Start with excavating the foot. You can use a length of mason line which is attached to a stake in the cent of the circular site of the fireplace to draw the three rings. Mark with spray paint.
The first ring will mark the inside wall of your fireplace, the second marks the outside of the wall, and the third marks the boundary of the inner flagstone.
2. Dig It Out
Now it’s time to dig out the one foot space between the two circles to about a 6 inch depth. This will create a sunken area for your concrete footings.
3. Re-bar
Fit the area you dug out with #4 re-bar which has been bent into two rings. Hold them together with wire that has been twisted tightly. Once you’ve secured them you need to lay them in the area you dug out. This is going to provide the reinforcement for the footings.
4. Fill Er Up
Now it’s time to fill the hole with concrete. Smooth with trowel so that the surface is smooth.
5. Build The Walls
It’s time to begin building your rock wall. You’ll start with the inner wall and work outward. The cost will depend on where you get your rocks and what type of rocks you use. Your stones will need to be fitted snuggly using your concrete mix to hold and support each one. Make sure the top of the stones are perfectly level so that your grill sits nice and level.
6. Do The Grill
Now it’s time to place the grill panel in place. Make sure that the grill is sitting level.
7. Fireplace Wall
Now it’s time to start laying the fireplace wall around the grill panel. The mortar needs to be applied on the outer edge of the rocks. After the mortar is cured you can add your flagstone veneer.
8. Liquid Bonding
Before you add the veneer you need to space properly between the rock wall and the outer ring. Now it is time to add your liquid bonding adhesive which is a concrete mix.
9. Planting Time
Now it’s time to start planting those beautiful exotic plants and herbs. Terra cotta pots work great. Surround the fireplace with these great containers to add a lovely warmth to the area.
10. Patio
All that’s left is to find the perfect patio table and chairs and add it. Use colors that compliment the mortar and rock colors. Situate it close enough to be able to enjoy the warmth of the fire.
That’s it. Well of course that’s the “in a nut shell” version. But if you are handy enough to attempt this project you’ll easily be filling in the blanks.
Your Mexican rock fireplace is going to look spectacular in your backyard and what a great time you and your friends and family will have. And that’s what it’s all about – great food, great drink, and great friends. Enjoy!
Limestone Fireplace
Thinking about a limestone fireplace for your home? Whether you’re looking at a smaller fireplace surround for a smaller kitchen or bedroom hearth, or a massive fireplace surround for your great hall, limestone fireplace surrounds add elegance unmatched by modern prefab fireplaces.
Of course a limestone fireplace is going to be more expensive than other prefab fireplaces and even other materials of custom fireplaces, but a limestone fireplace doesn’t have to be as expensive as you may be thinking.
With the innovation of pre-engineered limestone pieces combined with an anchor system, it is possible to get the same high quality limestone fireplace for a much more reasonable price. In fact, using these newer limestone technologies and methods, a limestone fireplace can be comparable to stone or brick fireplaces in terms of cost.
If you’re open to using limestone and limestone veneer pieces to build your limestone fireplace, you can have the limestone fireplace of your dreams for a fraction of the cost that a traditional limestone fireplace would usually cost.
After the limestone pieces and limestone veneer pieces are all put in place, the joints are filled in with mortar. The limestone veneer pieces are securely anchored to the structural components of a room so that the overall limestone structure is as secure and sturdy as a single piece, traditional limestone carving.
There are several advantages to choosing limestone as a building material, whether for a fireplace or other applications around the house. Limestone adds an elegance that will certainly raise the value of your home. This translates to further enjoyment while you live there, as well as increased profit should you decide to sell your house one day.
There are also several advantages to opting for pre-cut pieces of limestone as mentioned above. For one, the limestone pieces can be altered on site to make any necessary adjustments along the way to completion.
When you incorporate an anchor system and pre-cut limestone pieces this also takes away the need for relief angles and other methods by which limestone carvers take the pressure and weight off the limestone below. With an anchoring system, all of the limestone weight is transferred directly to the structural components of the house.
As opposed to brick or other stone veneers, adding limestone to an existing wall uses considerably less space. A limestone veneer can take up as little as 1 ½ inches compared to the average of 3 ½ inches of brick or other natural stones.
These newer and more affordable methods of installing limestone have been tested for several years now. There have even been several laboratories that have performed chemical analysis of the limestone used in these less expensive anchoring and limestone veneer applications. For more information, I invite you to take a look at the American Limestone Company’s website which can be found at http://www.americanlimestone.com .
Warm Up with Isokern Fireplaces
People might know this volcanic rock by another name – pumice stone. This resource comes from mines thousands of years old in Iceland near the polar circle. This particular pumice stone has pure, quality characteristics with little organic material in its composition. What this translates to is that it makes for great materials to build Isokern fireplaces.
This volcanic rock from Iceland is manufactured into interlocking blocks that are light in weight. Isokern fireplaces are made from these blocks. The manufacturer ships these blocks as a masonry kit, which could then be put together with simple instructions, much like Lego’s or building blocks you might have played with as a child. The components of these Isokern fireplaces are so easy to install that you can complete one in less than a day, unlike the more standard masonry kits.
What makes these fireplaces so special is the pumice stone. As mentioned above, it has superior insulating qualities and is therefore more heat efficient than standard materials used. In addition, Isokern fireplaces can be customized to suit your needs, whether you are a contractor or an adept do-it-yourself homeowner. The best part about these fireplaces is the price tag. You can expect your Isokern to be as much as fifty percent cheaper than if you went a more traditional brick and mortar-type of fireplace.
There are several model series to choose from in regards to Isokern fireplaces. There is a vent-free version that is best for areas of the home not normally suited to fireplaces. These are great options if space is limited. Heat is produced from natural gas and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
One of the most popular in the series of Isokern fireplaces is the standard model. It is a little smaller than other traditional fireplaces, yet has the same size firebox opening. These models can either use wood or natural gas as heat options. If you had the space for a fireplace, but the floor area could not be cleared of combustible items, the Fire-Lite series is a great option. The hearth for this type of fireplace has to be elevated, but also has both wood and natural gas heating capabilities. It is also a great option for log homes and second story buildings.
Isokern fireplaces have additional models to choose from that would work for practically any scenario in your home – both indoor and outdoor. They are also lightweight, heat efficient, and easy to install. That is why they are becoming more and more popular with interior designers, architects, home builders and contractors. Add the fact that they are smaller in size to maximize space, yet have the same firebox opening capacity as traditional fireplaces and you have a winning combination in Isokerns.
Free Standing Indoor Fireplaces
Free standing indoor fireplaces can be defined as not being built within an existing structure like a home. Also known as sometimes as freestanding stoves, they come in many shapes and forms and also employ a variety of heat sources. Gas or electric models are the most popular. However, there are also free standing indoor fireplaces that use wood, gel fuel, coal and pellets. It is a matter of what type of space you are working with as well as your heat course preferences.
Thanks to today’s technology, you can choose amongst a large variety of colors, styles and materials. Do you want a country look? There are cast iron styles with pot-belly shapes. Do you have an Art Deco or contemporary design theme? Sleek stainless steel models with glass doors might be more suited to your tastes. There are also some that have enameled porcelain finishes and European models that are made with soapstone.
Free standing indoor fireplaces that use gas or burn wood will need to be vented through a chimney made of metal. Typically these types of fireplace models have to be installed near an exterior wall or close to an area where the building’s roof is accessible. The venting from the metal chimney has to go through one of these areas. If you are in a condo or apartment, please check with your landlord as to the rules and regulations for this addition.
Some gas models do have options which vent naturally as well as have direct venting or no venting at all. Some require the metal chimney and some do not. In addition, you can find models that fit into a corner. This is a great option if you are pressed for space and the corner is not usable for anything else.
Pellet stoves are an excellent choice for free standing indoor fireplaces. They burn clean and can be vented in a either up and down or sideways. They come in a variety of styles with the cast iron being the most popular. Another environmentally friendly option that is portable burns cleanly with a type of gel fuel.
To be safe, these free standing indoor fireplaces should be installed on top of a hearth pad. What this means is that these fireplaces need a nonflammable base to rest on. This could be bare concrete, a brick surface or even stone tile. Steel and glass are options as well. Check with the manufacturer’s instructions and find out the required distance the fireplaces should be from the walls and other combustible areas.
If you are keen on purchasing one of the free standing indoor fireplaces on the market today, be sure to do your homework. Take measurements of the room where you would like the fireplace. Talk with your landlord and a building inspector about the requirement for safe installation. Most of all, decide which heat source would work best for your lifestyle and accommodations.
Fireplace Brands
Of the thirty most popular fireplace brands, there are some very interesting styles and materials used today. For anyone thinking that the fireplace is large the same thing it has always been, with few improvements or changes in styles, nothing could be farther from the truth.
Interestingly, as the fireplace becomes smaller and more attention has become fixated on the mantelpiece, the styling of the modern fireplace have tended to focus on smaller areas, rather than the sweeping design changes of the past centuries.
The Dimplex fireplace company offers many electric fireplace models that include all the style of traditional fireplaces with the convenience of push button fireplace heating. The Newport model, for example, offers a romantic ambiance of a fireplace without any of the work or danger of having a wood burning fire.
Since no venting is required for electric fireplaces, these types of fireplaces can be installed anywhere. The Dimplex company uses what they call “electraflame” to produce realistic flame technology with a wide range of style options.
One nice thing about the electraflame fireplaces made by the Dimplex company is that you can have the look of a fire with or without the heat. These electric fireplaces can be plugged in to a regular 120 volt outlet. Since you can choose heat or no heat, these fireplaces are perfect for running any time of the year that you want that fire ambience.
If you do opt for the heat producing variety of electric fire, the Newport model provides up to 5000 BTU / hour of radiating heat. Though it can be nice to have a fireplace that doesn’t necessarily put off heat, it can also be a great option to have some localized heat for the colder days in the year. The radiating heat produced by this electric fireplace is circulated with the aid of a fan.
This model of electric fireplace also includes and adjustable thermostat that will keep the heat output of the fireplace within your comfort zone. This means that you do not have to constantly keep an eye on the fireplace or the heat it puts out. This is just another advantage to having an electric fireplace, as wood burning fireplaces must be under constant supervision.
The glass that covers the fireplace will remain safe to the touch whether the heat is not being produced or is going full blast. This makes the fireplace particularly safe for children and pets to be around.
Another advantage of electric fireplaces is that they do not contribute to moisture problems as many un-vented gas fireplaces tend to do. Of course adding heat to your home in general will tend to dry out the air and you may find the need for a humidifier during the coldest months of the year.
For a look at some of the different fireplace styles and fireplace brands, take a look at http://www.fireplacesnow.com/ . Here you’ll find a list of manufacturers, pictures of different fireplaces, as well as several other invaluable resources you can use to determine which type of fireplace will best meet your needs.
Faux Stone Fireplace
For a beautiful example of a faux stone fireplace, take a look at the work done by skilled artists at Steve Austin Painting, which can be found at http://www.wonderfaux.com/walls10.html . It’s hard to believe that this beautiful stone fireplace isn’t really stone at all, but paint on top of regular old plaster.
Faux painting is not as difficult as you may imagine, and simply requires a little bit of research and practice. The good thing about paint projects is that if you make a huge mistake, you can always cover over the area with some primer and start al over again.
A faux stone fireplace technique is quite simple. You really can’t do this wrong, as you can always touch up here and there until you’re completely satisfied with the effect. And, like I said, worst case scenario: you totally mess things up and have to start all over. No harm done, and you learned a thing or two in the process.
Step One:
Prepare the surface onto which you will be painting by cleaning and removing any mildew or dust that has deposited on the surface. If you end up using soapy water or some other wet substance, be sure to let the area dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step Two:
Find a stone model in shades that are the same or similar to the look that you want for your faux stone fireplace. Select a basecoat color in an eggshell (otherwise known as ’satin’) or other low luster sheen.
Apply two coats of this basecoat color with a roller. You will have to use a paint brush to work in from the corners, tops and bottoms of the areas to be painted. With faux finish painting, it is not critical that every inch is covered, as the top texture will cover any bare spots, but it is a good idea to shoot for total coverage.
Step Three:
Use a crumpled rap or paper to apply a paint / glaze mixture in the accent color of your stone model. You can find faux finishing glaze at any paint, hardware or home improvement store. Though the glaze instructions may say to use five parts glaze to one part paint, I’ve found that a mixture of two to three parts glaze to each part of paint is much more suitable for any faux texture effect.
Dab the paint / glaze mixture onto the wall to create a textured effect. Continue to do this until the entire surface has been treated. You can apply as many coats or shades and coats as is necessary to create the look you have in mind. Just be sure to let each different color or layer dry completely before applying the next.
Step Four:
Trace some real stones onto a piece of cardboard. If you do not have any real stones, simply draw four or five (or more) different stone shapes. These will serve as your stone block templates. Lightly trace around the blocks on the wall using chalk or pencil, alternating the various blocks.
Step Five:
Paint the outlines of the block shapes with a fine artist’s brush. Try to use earthy tones, relative to your stone model, of course. Try to blend several earthy tones and use a feathering technique over the edges to give a more realistic and rustic appearance.
Good luck! Faux finish painting projects can be stressful if you’ve never done them before, because they can seem all kinds of wrong right up until the last finishing touches are applied. So relax and try to have fun with it.
Should You Get A Concrete Fireplace?
For a dramatic fireplace, try a custom concrete fireplace mantel. These cast stone mantels come in many colors, finishes and textures and are also available at reasonable prices. Offered in early American to French country, styles will vary. Many companies that provide fireplaces made of concrete will work directly with you in designing the perfect fireplace and concrete mantel for you. A decorative concrete mantel can make the difference in an ordinary decor a spectacular one. By using a concrete manufacturer of fireplaces and mantels, you can choose any shape, color or design that you desire.
When searching for the perfect concrete fireplace facade, look for one with clean lines and the appeal that you hope for. If it’s an earthiness look that you want, don’t purchase a straight lined fireplace but look for a unique chunky, possibly worn appearing fireplace. Concrete fireplaces can come in any shape you can imagine so you are sure to get exactly what you are seeking. Lately using concrete for your fireplace or its mantel is all the rage. With concrete now being used in countertops, bathtubs, floors and other areas of the home, a concrete fireplace can be quite striking. Some fireplaces will include wood in their concrete design offering a 3 dimensional look.
A concrete fireplace is similar to the average brick, masonry or stone fire place. Offering the same fire resistance, a fireplace of concrete offers the ability to be shaped into any form and giving a natural look to the fireplace. Most people don’t realize that concrete can be colored to match any decor or color scheme. Most people seek out a concrete mantel and fireplace because concrete can offer a one of a kind design. This can add more value to your home. The cost of concrete is similar to a stone fireplace. While this cost is for a similar shape and size fireplace, there are other benefits of a fireplace made of concrete. A concrete hearth actually radiates just enough heat to feel comfortable when sitting on it.
There are two options to installing a fireplace made of concrete. You can have your fireplace cast by a manufacturer who will use your measurements and design. These fireplaces are pre-cast with bolts to tie into the framing. Another way to install a fireplace of concrete is to cast it in place. Often Styrofoam is used as a pattern, making sure that the design will fit perfectly. Some concrete hearths are etched to give the appearance of an aged hearth. A sealer is placed over the finished fireplace to give it shine and help to keep it from scorching. Consider a concrete fireplace when redesigning any home. It’s sure to add warmth to any home.