Hearths, Beams, Mantels & Chambers

The Heart of Your Home’s Warmth

For ages, hearths have been the cozy core of our homes. Think of them as the spot where your fire chills out, providing that comforting warmth and a perfect place to snuggle up. So, when you’re picking out a fireplace, it just makes sense to get the hearth right. It’s not just about looking good – there are some important safety rules to keep in mind, too!

What Exactly is a Hearth?

Let’s clear up the basics first: the hearth is basically the floor of your fireplace. Back in the day, the fire basket would sit right on top of it, beneath the chimney opening. They usually stick out into the room a bit and are typically made of stone or brick.

Why Do You Even Need a Hearth?

The biggest reason for a fireplace hearth is safety. I mean, open flames and anything that can easily catch fire don’t mix, right? So, your fire needs to sit on a surface that can handle the heat without cracking.

You see that bit pokes out into the room? That’s called the “hearth extension,” and it’s super important. Its job is to catch any rogue embers, ash, or other bits that might escape and cause a fire.

Beyond safety, hearths also play a big role in the look of your fireplace, making it feel complete. Plus, they help keep a safe distance between you and any hot bits that could cause a burn.

Popular Hearth Materials

Granite Hearths

If you’ve got a solid fuel fire (think wood or coal), granite is a top-notch choice for a hearth. To make sure it can really take the heat, you’ll want one that’s “slabbed.” This means it’s been cut into pieces and set in concrete, giving it room to expand when it heats up. Granite hearths are fantastic if you’re into that bold, modern black look, but they can also beautifully complement a more traditional period or Victorian-style fireplace.

Slate Hearths

Slate hearths look fantastic for solid fuel fires (our top seller)! If you’re leaning towards a black hearth but fancy something different from granite, slate is a great alternative. You can keep its natural, deep matte grey tone, or polish it up for a super glossy, jet-black finish.