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Not even sure if I've named this right ... I'm looking for the material to go around the fireplace cutout. We have a traditional mantel with dental details that match the crown moulding. We've got the mantel down to bare wood & will be staining it a medium brown.
I'd like a solid surround, not tile. Is that possible? Is granite used on a fireplace? I like the flat sleek look of such an idea. As you can tell, I'm clueless as to even how to google the type of craftsman to hire.
All suggestions appreciated.
Location: East of Seattle since 1992, 615' Elevation, Zone 8b - originally from SF Bay Area
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You can get granite, marble, and the man-made solid surface materials cut and installed for a fireplace. Most places that do kitchen counters can handle it, but you would be better off going to a fireplace specialty store, we have 3-4 in our area and they all do custom work.
You're right in the ballpark but close enough for government work. Actually a mantel surround, but you described it perfectly. I would look around at stone and granite places and tell them the purpose. Most tile or granite places have installers. Hemlocks advice isn't wrong but they would be the middle man IMHO, so I would go right to the stone man.
We wanted that same look for our painted brick fireplace. We chose 24"x12" porcelain tile in a medium/darkish grey. We butt jointed them so have no grout. Got a slab of granite with leather finish for the hearth.
You didn't state in your original post-
Is this the existing mantel?
What is the existing surround material/hearth?
Is the hearth raised? All of these things can make a difference when changing the surround material.
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