A fireplace is a long-term investment, and the materials you choose for the surround will determine its longevity. While it is possible to use wood for the mantel shelf, it’s generally advised to use non-combustible materials for the components near the firebox. Today, we compare three materials (marble, brick and concrete) to determine the most durable option for a fireplace surround.
1. Marble: Durability score: 3/10
Marble is formed when underground limestone deposits are exposed to pressure and heat. The Mohs hardness scale is a simple yet effective method for determining a material’s scratch and dent resistance. On the Mohs hardness scale, marble scores 3 out of 10, placing it firmly in the soft stone category alongside slate and soapstone.
Regarding heat resistance, marble has a similar thermal expansion coefficient (how much it expands when heated) to brick. However, problems can arise when there are impurities in the stone. Marble attains its unique patterns from other minerals blended with the limestone. These minerals often expand and contract at varying rates, which can cause a marble fireplace surround to crack. For these reasons, we give marble a durability score of 3/10.
2. Brick: Durability score: 6/10
The Mohs hardness index for clay bricks is 5 to 6, meaning they can withstand high temperatures without breaking. Their durability in hot surroundings makes them ideal for fireplace surrounds. Bricks are ideally suited for a rustic interior with lower maintenance than marble.
In fireplace surrounds, brick and mortar experience extreme heat, causing rapid expansion and contraction that could create cracks over time. When it comes to thermal expansion coefficient (CTE), bricks score moderately well, giving them an overall durability rating of 6/10.
3. Concrete: Durability score: 8/10
We use a Glass Fibre-Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) mix combining fine sand, cement, polymer, water reducers, and alkali-resistant (AR) glass fibres. It’s prized for its high compressive strength of 6000-8000Psi, and because it’s non-combustible, it has a two-hour fire rating.
Overall Winner: Precast Concrete
Unlike natural stone and clay masonry, GFRC can be precision-engineered to increase its thermal resistance, hardness, and strength. It’s one of the most durable materials for contemporary fireplaces and has aesthetic benefits. Our concrete fireplace surrounds are available in grey, white, cream, and charcoal, offering various design possibilities for your home.
Sculptural Design provides traditional to contemporary precast in Calgary—chat with us about your new fireplace design today.
