Since we have such long winters in the UK, most of our interior impulses and instincts are to make the house look and feel warm and cosy. However, a fireplace is more than just a source of warmth and comfort. Both Fireplaces or Wood Burners naturally act as a centrepiece and key focal point of any living space, so those of you who are fortunate enough to own one, have you ever considered using this space to elevate the style and ambience of your home?
An on-trend decorative solution for your fireplace or woodburner surround you should definitely consider is using Split Face Mosaic Wall Tiles. Providing unique texture and character, our collection consists of Slate and Quartzite. Aside from their outstanding characteristics and eye-catching qualities, they also own very little on-going maintenance and are incredibly durable. Whether you are a homeowner or a designer, read on to discover why Split Face tiles should be at the top of your list when it comes to modern fireplace designs.
Benefits of Using Split Face Tiles for Your Fireplace or Woodburner Surround
From their appearance to their qualities, there are many benefit to using split face tiles for your fireplace. A signification advantage of using this decorative solution is their unique texture. The texture of these tiles are created through a process of splitting natural stone, creating an uneven and rustic surface. These individual pieces are then formed to create the tile, with each piece being unmatched to the other, it creates a visual effect that adds depth and character to any space.
In comparison to that of other decorative solutions such as wallpaper, paint and ceramic tiles, our Split Face tiles are able to withstand high temperatures due to being made from natural stone, and with this, means they are less likely to crack or chip.
Split face tiles also require very little on-going maintenance. We highly recommending using tile sealer on any natural stone to make them resistant to staining and dirt which in turn, will not only enhance the natural beauty of the stone, but will also protect them and render them lower maintenance.
Different Types of Split Face Tiles for Fireplace or Woodburner Surround
Here at the Stone Tile Company, our Split Face range consists of Quartzite and Slate, compromising of different sizes by row quantity, length, width and even the individual pieces that make up the mosaic.
Slate Split Face Tiles
The most striking thing about Slate Split Face Tiles are the natural colours and appearance that vary from one piece to the other. From black slate to sheera slate, the warm, earthy and rustic tones in which these tiles provide evoke a sense of homely warmth. These tiles are perfect for those who are looking to bring a sense of Mother Nature indoors and want to either create or maintain that of a timeless country-living aesthetic.
Quartzite Split Face Tiles
For those looking to completely modernise the look of their fireplace or the surroundings of their wood burner, we would recommend our gorgeous range of quartzite split face tiles. The sparkle from the quartz reflects in natural lighting which evokes a sense of high-end luxury living.
Installing Split Face Tiles
Before installing any tiles, adequate cleaning and preparation must be adhered to. The surface must be suitably flat, secure, clean, dry and free of dust, grease or any loose materials, and must be capable of carrying the additional weight.
We highly recommend adding a 10% tolerance for cuts. If you are tiling corners and edging, then you will require at least 15%. Cutting of the tiles are recommended to be carried out on a Wet Tile Saw with a diamond encrusted blade - a basic one from any DIY retailer will do the trick.
Prior to any fitting (as with any natural stone) we highly advise dry laying the tiles on the floor. This will ensure that you are happy with the colour variation and that they blend nicely. As they are manufactured in a Z shaped interlocking design, shuffling of the tiles may be required to ensure the best fit so they seamlessly blend together. The beauty of this design means that the tiles do not require any grout and is easier for people to install with little-to-no experience in tile fitting.
For installation in this space, we recommend that a heat resistant adhesive is used in this area, such as Vitcas Heat Resistant Adhesive, as this will make sure your tiles are well-adhered to the surface, without being compromised by the intense heat. For the remaining wall areas that are not subjected to the intense heat, you can just use a regular adhesive such as any from our comprehensive range of adhesives.
For a more in-depth step-by-step guide for beginner or DIY’ers, we have provided information and an installation guide on how to install Split Face Tiles, including the tools and fixing accessories required.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Your Split Face Tiles
Cleaning and maintenance of your Split Face Tiles is easy and very minimal. As mentioned previously, we highly recommend sealing your tiles. For internal use, we offer Ironwax Satin Finish Natural Stone Sealer and Colour Intensifier & Stainblock Natural Stone Sealer. These protective treatments may also bring out the natural beauty of your stone by enhancing the natural colours, veins and patterns. These sealers act to protect the stone by repelling dirt, grease, staining, water and oil, whilst still allowing the stone to breathe.
We highly advise to avoid any harsh or abrasive cleaners on the stone whether it is sealed or not, to avoid ruining the stone or stripping the sealer. We would recommend using LTP’s Waxwash Cleaner to clean your Split Face tiles as it can be used on the most delicate of surfaces, without ruining the appearance of the tiles and is also suitable for sealed surfaces.
Shop With Stone Tile Company
We offer a wide range of Split Face Wall Tiles here at the Stone Tile Company, meaning there is something for everybody. Due to our purchasing power and close relationship with factories worldwide, we are able to offer high-end and luxury products at a fraction of the cost!