Ceramic tiles for stoves and fireplaces: classification, finishing tips. Finishing of stoves and fireplaces: tiles, decorative stone, marble Clay tiles for stoves

A home stove can serve as more than just a means of heating. She can turn into stylish element interior, if you make an effort for this. The same applies to home fireplaces. The tile for the stove must be fireproof so that it can withstand high temperatures.

How to improve?

If you want to give your heating product an attractive look, then there are plenty of options. or a fireplace may involve plastering, lining and finishing with stone or tile.

Most often, ceramic or tiles are used for this purpose. Moreover, the first option is the most popular and accessible. Plaster is not very practical, since cracks constantly form on it, and tiles are quite expensive.

Depending on your wishes and general interior At home, you independently choose what to cover the stove with so that it not only performs its functions, but also looks impressive.

What should the cladding be like?

Naturally, stove tiles or other coverings must meet certain standards. The requirements for them are as follows:

• Environmental friendliness. If natural ingredients exceed artificial ones in quantity, then during heating the release of toxic substances will be minimized.
• Fire resistance. During use, the tile will be exposed to strong thermal effects that exceed 1000 degrees. Therefore, you need to choose the appropriate option in this case.
• Heat capacity and thermal conductivity.
• The water absorption rate should be a maximum of 3 percent.
• Minimum thickness - 8 mm.
• Low porosity.
• Durable color that will not fade when exposed to temperature.
• Antistatic.
• External attractiveness.

Nowadays the range of such products in construction stores is very large. Therefore, stove tiles are available in all variations. It all depends on where the installation is located, what room it is and what design its interior is made of.

Properties of facing materials for stoves and fireplaces

Fireproof tiles are a high-quality material that can withstand high temperature loads. It is made on the basis of special clay that is resistant to them. The production technology is also special: heat-resistant tiles are hardened under the most extreme conditions. The temperature can reach 1500 degrees. However, it is precisely this method of its production that guarantees high-quality operation as a facing material for special objects.

Tiles for the fireplace and other means for equipping it with fire-resistant properties have their own varieties. But in terms of functionality they are all the same. Their main task is to protect the furnace from temperature changes and prevent its destruction.

Such materials are used during the final finishing of structures. Any wear-resistant and durable. It includes the following components:

• special clay;
• water;
• additives;
• finishing glaze with pigment.

Features of ceramic tiles

It can be terracotta or majolica. This stove tile has excellent heat-resistant properties. When heated or cooled for a long time, it does not change its shape and appearance. Terracotta tiles have a rough surface and imitate stone or brick. And majolica is smooth and glazed.

Terracotta cladding material is used for indoor or outdoor applications. It can be placed in places with high humidity. It is also distinguished by its impact resistance and vapor permeability. These are the advantages that the oven has. Its price ranges from 100 to 1000 rubles per piece and also depends on the manufacturer.

Concept of clinker tiles

It is often practiced to line the furnace with such material. It is made from several types of shale clay, fireclay powder and other ingredients that are mixed with each other. These tiles are distinguished by a wide variety of colors, which is achieved by mixing a mineral dye with a key mixture.

Tile

Heat resistant tiles- this is not any type of tile. Here you need to choose very carefully. The fact is that a stove or fireplace during operation has stages of both heating and cooling. And in order for the facing material to resist, when buying tiles, give preference to small tiles with a matte surface. But the glazed structure will not withstand such changes and will crack over time.

Fire-resistant tiles in the form of tiles are not very suitable for country houses, if they are not used as permanent housing. When the stove is heated at sub-zero temperatures, the facing material may crumble. Also, those fireplace tiles that have a zero level of water absorption will not be able to adhere to clay or cement mortar. It will require fastening in the form of specialized adhesive mixtures, but the seams should be treated with fire-resistant grout.

Tiles

Such coatings do not have many of the disadvantages that apply to tiles. Most often they are smooth and have no relief.

Tiles for this type of fireplace are distinguished by their fire resistance and the fact that they are made by hand using a special technology. When installed, some elements are assembled into a single pattern of the desired color. These tiles are very diverse in terms of design, so they can be matched to any type of interior.

The cost of tiles depends on the theme, complexity of the pattern and how many parts are needed to create it. For example, a set of 400 elements will cost 200 thousand rubles and more.

Composition of fireproof tiles for stoves and fireplaces

It has already been mentioned that heat-resistant tiles are made from special clay. It, in turn, consists of special minerals in certain proportions. It is known that its layers different types lie almost everywhere at one or another ground level. This rock consists of aluminosilicates. And the color will directly depend on its chemical components:

• sodium;
• magnesium;
• kaolin;
• metal oxides and others.

However, it is impossible to say exactly which components provide fire resistance. However, it is they that, when fired at high temperatures, give the materials strength. The key quality of such tiles is the absence of melting and the release of toxic substances.

Which fits best where?

Tiles for stoves and fireplaces have a lot of varieties. It differs from each other in surface, pattern, texture and size.

For example, the glassy surface of the material is suitable for masonry in structures that are not particularly hot. Moreover, in such places it should be laid out in several layers. Glass does not tolerate temperature changes well, this should be taken into account.

The best option for all cases is standard small rectangular tiles. The easiest way is to lay them end to end, while the gap for the seams remains minimal.

Clinker products have good characteristics. It is thicker and somewhat reminiscent of finishing brick. With the help of such tiles you can imitate masonry.

In any case, the choice of one type or another must be approached extremely carefully. After all, your safety and the guarantee of successful operation of the fireplace or stove depend on this.

What to consider when installing?

Basically, tiles of any kind, intended for fireplaces and stoves, tolerate temperature fluctuations, extremely low and high levels. It is often used in saunas, for exterior decoration grills and barbecues. After firing, it becomes resistant to cold and moisture. And it is very important to follow the technology of its installation, because this is what affects the duration of use, quality and appearance of the structure.

The prepared surface is covered with tiles. Before this, a layer of fixing composition is evenly applied to it. To ensure a neat seam, you need to maintain a certain amount of patience when working. Also remember that every material tends to expand after heating. The cut parts should be laid last, and it is better to start from the outer corners. It is advisable to bring one wall up to an internal turn, and then tile the rest of it.

The quality of the work performed largely determines how the stove will serve and how long the coating in the form of slabs will last. But it is also important that you select them in the right way.

Ceramic tiles for cladding stoves and fireplaces remain the most universal material. It is quite aesthetic and gives a wonderful look to the product. But not every material is suitable for finishing. There are many products of this type on the market, but before choosing, let's decide on the parameters that ceramic tiles for a fireplace should have. In this article we will look at this issue. You can watch photos and videos on this topic and make the right choice.

Ceramic tiles used for lining stoves and fireplaces must meet a number of requirements. It is necessary to pay attention to such factors:

• The material must fully match the style of the room.
• If the structure will be located in a bathhouse or sauna, you need to determine the conditions under which the material will be used. We need to pay attention technical specifications products.
• If the structure will be located in a residential area, then clinker tiles are used for this. It is made using clay and then fired. After this, a design or glaze can be applied to the surface.

Attention! When purchasing, pay attention to the labeling of the elements. There are two types - "A" and "B". Give preference to the first option. He points out that ceramic tiles were made using computer technology and have more accurate dimensions. With their help, you can make any drawing better. The size of these elements is made more accurately.

Ceramic tiles that are suitable for facing a fireplace must meet several requirements:

• Have high heat resistance. Withstand temperature changes. This especially applies to unheated rooms.
• The thickness of the elements must be at least 8 mm.
• must be resistant to mechanical damage.
• Ceramic tiles should be low-porous, this increases the strength of the cladding and extends its service life.

Types of tiles for fireplaces and stoves

There are several types of products on sale that are suitable for lining fireplaces. Only they differ from each other in some properties. Therefore, you can’t make a mistake when choosing. Let's look at these products and make the right choice.

Terracotta

This material is made using clay and is an environmentally friendly product and will not harm your health.

Appearance of terracotta

So:

• This material is characterized by high strength and durability. It is also used for cladding buildings, and you can see how long it lasts even with temperature changes. This is a frost-resistant element, so mounting in rooms with inconsistent heating will be completely justified. Ease of maintenance will also attract the consumer of this product.
• Air and vapor permeability is also an important advantage of this tile. It absorbs excess air humidity and helps create a comfortable atmosphere in the room. When the air is dry, it transfers humidity to the room, that is, it also performs the functions of an air conditioner. Therefore, these elements should be used in baths and saunas.
• This material has high adhesion to adhesive-based surfaces. Attaches well to liquid nails. Can have a high-quality connection with almost any base;
• This is a fireproof material. Manufacturing takes place at a temperature of 1100 degrees. This tile can withstand any temperature changes very well. The textured surface contributes to the high heat transfer of the elements; the thermal expansion of the tile corresponds to the stove brick. A fireplace lined with this material will give off heat much longer than other elements.

Tiles

These are piece elements for fireplace cladding, which are treated with glaze. Allows you to create almost any design on the product. Perfect for covering a fireplace or stove (see).

• Fire-resistant material, which is made from special types of clay and is environmentally friendly and does not harm human health.
• The production process uses high temperature firing. This is a heat-resistant material that will perfectly withstand elevated temperatures.
• This material has increased heat transfer. The form itself allows you to increase this effect. This type of heat is considered the most environmentally friendly.
• These elements are durable and do not require high maintenance costs.
• But this product also has its drawback - its high cost, which did not allow it to take a leading position in sales.

Porcelain tiles

This is the most modern element of finishing fireplaces and stoves. It is a monolithic, non-porous structure. Made in Italy in the mid-80s.

• This material is resistant to elevated and very low temperatures. It contains quartz sand, fine clay, marble chips and oxides of various metals. Performed by pressing under high pressure.
• A wide range of colors allows you to create unique design fireplace.
• The color range allows you to use this material to create a finish to match any element.
• This is a durable and strong material.
• The moisture resistance of the material allows you to finish elements that are located in places of high humidity (bathhouse, sauna).
• Does not fade even in direct sunlight.

Heat-resistant clinker tiles

Ceramic tiles for fireplaces, clinker, are a type of ceramics. It is made from several types of clay with the addition of fireclay powder. Color is achieved by adding dyes.

• The thickness of the tiles ranges from 9 to 12 mm. This allows for proper lining of fireplaces and stoves.
• Installation of such tiles is quite simple. It can be attached with hot melt glue. This results in less waste being generated.

Attention! If you have a fireplace or stove in a summer kitchen or gazebo, then you will need to use frost-resistant glue. Be sure to pay attention to this when making a purchase.

• For better adhesion of surfaces, craftsmen advise using a mesh during installation, which is attached to the base plane.
• The seams can be treated with a special grout, which has many colors and shades.
• This material has high strength and is durable in use.
• The structure of the elements is low-porous, which allows for better heat transfer.
• The elements have low water absorption, up to only 3 percent.
• High frost resistance allows the elements to be installed in places without constant heating.
• Clinker tiles are made from environmentally friendly components and therefore do not harm human health.

Majolica

This is essentially an ancient tile that was used in Georgia to decorate stoves. This is an improved glazed terracotta.

Example of majolica finishing

We have listed the main types of tiles for fireplaces and stoves. The price of this material can be quite different. But you can install any of them yourself, thereby reducing the cost of work. Detailed instructions installation instructions for each type are on the pages of our website. It's not so much difficult as it is painstaking work, but you can handle it.

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Stoves and fireplaces in homes have always been in demand because of their functionality, but previously there were only two ways of finishing these structures: plastering followed by whitewashing with a lime solution or complex cladding with expensive tiles. With the development of technology, other types of finishing materials have appeared that meet the requirements for heat-resistant cladding of bases.

The tiles currently produced for stoves and fireplaces differ in material and manufacturing technology, and therefore have differences in characteristics. Heating and heating structures also differ in purpose and mode of operation, therefore, fire-resistant tiles for their finishing should be selected taking these factors into account.

Clinker tiles differ from ceramic tiles, despite the fact that they are also made from clay

Let's consider the types of heat-resistant ceramic cladding, their characteristics and the degree of compliance with the requirements for finishing stoves in the following sequence:

1. Requirements for heat-resistant cladding ceramics.
2. Types of heat-resistant finishing ceramics.
3. Recommendations for choosing.

Requirements for heat-resistant veneering ceramics

Heat-resistant tiles perform two main functions: protective-technological and aesthetic.

The protective technological function is to increase the heat capacity and improve the heat transfer process of the furnace. The refractory tile conducts through itself and releases environment heat slowly, while the front surface ceramic finishing short contact will not cause burns. In addition, heat-resistant tiles do not stain clothes or hands upon contact and are easy to clean on a daily basis.

Heat-resistant tiles are attached using hot-melt adhesive

The aesthetic function lies in the beauty of the cladding and does not require detailed descriptions.

The listed functions and operating conditions determine the requirements for heat-resistant cladding ceramics:

• low porosity (water absorption coefficient less than 3%);
• strength (when loaded with fuel);
• heat resistance above 1000 degrees;
• moderate heat transfer rate;
• safety and environmental friendliness (no toxic emissions when exposed to high temperatures, antistatic);
• thickness not less than 8 mm;
• durability of decoration.

Each of the listed requirements has its own range of values, which must be taken into account when choosing a ceramic finish, since the operating conditions of different furnaces differ.

For example, the lining of a stove in a house without permanent residence experiences temperature fluctuations from negative values ​​to 1000 degrees, while in a residential building the temperature does not drop below zero. This means that when choosing a tile from several suitable species ceramics, you need to choose a material with the lowest water absorption coefficient.

Types of heat-resistant finishing ceramics

Fireproof tiles are divided into the following types:

• ceramic:
• terracotta;
• majolica;
• clinker;
• porcelain stoneware;
• tiles (porcelain);
• fireclay.

Let's consider these types of cladding, their advantages and disadvantages.

Ceramic cladding

Ceramic tiles for stoves are currently produced in two types: terracotta and majolica.

Terracotta

Terracotta tiles have been handcrafted from kaolin clay for hundreds of years - the shaped pieces were dried in the sun and then fired in a kiln. The result was a tile with a unique surface texture for each product, emphasizing the naturalness of the material.

Terracotta tiles allow you to make fireplace facades aesthetically pleasing and beautiful.

Modern terracotta facing ceramics are made from the same kaolin clay, but by extrusion followed by firing without pre-drying. This technology reduces the cost of production, but at the same time its aesthetics are reduced - the texture of all products is the same.

Terracotta tiles have the following positive characteristics:

• strength and hardness;
• relatively small specific gravity;
• no toxic emissions;
• heat resistance 1100 degrees;
• the same coefficient of thermal expansion as brick;
• wide range of colors (from gray to brick).

Disadvantages of terracotta tiles:

• Terracotta is a porous material with thermal insulation properties, so its use for finishing full-function stoves and fireplaces is impractical.
• In addition, this ceramic is vapor and gas permeable, which is also undesirable. However, if the fireplace is electric, and its main function is decorative, then terracotta as a finishing material will be very impressive.

As a heat-resistant coating, terracotta cladding can be used, which has undergone additional processing, which reduces the porosity of the material and turns terracotta into majolica.

Majolica

Terracotta fireplace tiles coated with a matte glaze are called majolica. Majolica has all the advantages of terracotta, differing from it in the pores “clogged” with glaze and a smooth surface, ensuring ease of everyday care.

Majolica is a type of terracotta with a glazed surface, onto which a pattern can be applied by burning in

Due to the costs of additional processing, the price of majolica is higher than the cost of terracotta stove tiles.

Clinker

Clinker tiles for fireplaces are produced by pressing followed by firing a mixture of several types of clays and fireclay powder. The resulting heat-resistant material, glazed or unglazed, has the following positive characteristics:

• strength;
• high density;
• low water permeability;
• frost resistance;
• high heat resistance;
• safety and environmental friendliness.

Clinker tiles for fireplaces have been used for quite a long time.

However, the thermal expansion of clinker finishes made from different clays differs significantly from changes in the dimensions of kiln bricks made from one type of clay.

Heat-resistant clinker tiles are only suitable for lining fireplaces that do not heat up to high temperatures. When finishing stoves, clinker tiles will fall out of the finishing one by one or in fragments due to the significant difference with fireclay bricks in thermal expansion at high temperatures.

To decorate fireplaces, it is better to use unglazed clinker tiles, which look more attractive than ceramics with glaze.

Porcelain tiles

Heat-resistant porcelain tiles are produced by pressing under high pressure with simultaneous heating until sintering of a mixture of several clays, high-quality quartz sand, marble and granite chips, to which dyes are added. The result is a material that is not inferior in properties to natural stone.

We can talk about the advantages of porcelain stoneware (gress) for a long time, so we will list only those that are related to the cladding of stoves and fireplaces:

• strength and hardness;
• high density;
• frost resistance and heat resistance;
• high thermal conductivity coefficient.

Clad granite fireplace

However, this material also has negative characteristics:

• significant share;
• processing complexity;
• limited color range.

Heat-resistant porcelain tiles are suitable for finishing any fireplaces and stoves, but it should be noted that the smooth back surface of porcelain tiles and the significant weight of the tiles require the use of tile adhesives with a high degree of adhesion.

The domestic manufacturer OJSC Keramin specializes in the production of high-quality porcelain stoneware, the range of which also includes well-proven heat-resistant gress.

Tiled finish

Facing with tiles is currently rare due to the complexity of installation technology and the high price of the material. Tiles are produced by firing molded pieces of white clay and are hand-painted box-shaped porcelain pieces coated with enamel.

Tiles are glazed ceramic tiles decorated with paintings or reliefs with a rump

The tiles are attached to the surface of the stoves in a special way - with fastening brackets and wire behind a special protrusion on the product (rump). The finishing of stoves with tiles is carried out by professionals, since this type of work requires a lot of experience and does not involve doing it yourself after familiarizing yourself with the technology

A tiled stove is a structure whose construction is carried out simultaneously with finishing and requires significant costs. But each finished stove is unique in design and rightfully borders on a work of art.

Fireclay tiles

Heat-resistant fireclay tiles (acid-resistant) are made from a mixture of refractory clays with stone flour, which, after molding, is fired at a temperature of 1300 degrees.

Fireclay stove tiles are absolutely fireproof; when heated, they have the same thermal expansion as the body masonry, and therefore do not peel off from the base. The material is resistant to temperature changes in both directions, accumulates and releases heat well, and is environmentally friendly.

Chamotte is a fireproof type of clay

Initial use of fireclay – production premises in metallurgy, therefore no attention was paid to the artistic design of this material. But the high characteristics of the tile subsequently prompted its use in everyday life, and currently chamotte tiles are produced in a variety of decorative designs.

In addition to the mandatory requirements that fire-resistant finishing must meet, there are also recommendations that do not claim to be mandatory, but are based on the practice of oven cladding and are therefore useful:

• when choosing tiles for a stove or fireplace, you need to proceed from the status of the room in which the heating structure is located;
• priority should be the compliance of the performance characteristics of the finishing material with the conditions of use;
• the ideal size of heat-resistant cladding is from 10x10 to 20x25 cm;
• the use of glazed ceramics for finishing stoves will lead to the appearance of a web of cracks in the glaze, which will become more noticeable after contamination;
• when purchasing expensive material, it is better to turn to professional finishers so as not to learn from your inevitable and expensive mistakes;
• A reserve supply of tiles of 5-10% of the volume of finishing material will allow for unexpected spot repairs without compromising aesthetics.

Many private homes have a stove or fireplace that can be decorated with tiles, but not every tile will be suitable for this purpose. Cladding a stove with tiles puts forward a number of requirements both for the technology of facing work and for the material.

We will figure out which tiles are suitable for lining stoves in a house, country house or bathhouse within the scope of this article. Before you start choosing tiles, you should figure out which ones are available, what properties they have, and determine which one is best to use so that it is reliable and beautiful.

What functions does the furnace lining perform?

• increasing the heat capacity and heat output of a stove or fireplace;

• reducing the heating period of the room in which the stove is installed;

• decorative design;

• simplifying stove maintenance. The surface of the tile is easier to clean than, for example, a plastered surface;

• psychological component. Replacing heating appliances with a real classic stove has a positive effect on a person’s mood and the general atmosphere of the room.

Note. Tiles for finishing the stove are primarily heat-resistant finishing material, which means it may not be used on all surfaces.

Which tile is better to cover the stove in the house?

The choice of tiles primarily depends on what type of stove it will be installed on. Furnaces are classified according to purpose, heating temperature of the outer wall, shape, material of manufacture, fuel used, pattern of movement of combustion products, etc.

From the point of view of the purpose of the stove, several types can also be distinguished: heating, kitchen, heating and cooking (kitchen), fireplaces. Each of these types has its own heating/cooling cycle duration. Consequently, ovens vary in heating temperature: moderate (up to 100 °C), elevated (100-120 °C), high (over 120 °C). It is logical that the heating temperature determines the material from which the stove is made and leaves its mark when deciding which tile for cladding stoves is better.

What properties should tiles for fireplaces and stoves have?

When deciding which tiles to cover a stove in a house or country house, you need to know that a tile suitable for lining a stove must meet a number of conditions. The main ones are:

• heat capacity. The ability of a material to accumulate and release heat;

• resistance to high temperatures. Theoretically, the stove can be lined with any tiles. However, not all types of tiles are suitable for these purposes. For cladding you need a special heat-resistant (fireproof, heat-resistant, heat-resistant) tile for the stove. Its coefficient of thermal expansion should be within 7-8%;

Note. The coefficients of thermal expansion of the tile and the furnace material must be approximately the same, otherwise the tile will move away from the base.

• strength. Some types of tiles have a strength rating of 300 Newtons/mm2. or 30 t./sq.m. According to this indicator, facing tiles are much higher than concrete.

• rigidity. Will allow the product not to deform under load. In general, the thicker the tile, the stronger (harder, more stable) it is;

• environmental friendliness or chemical inertness. When heated, the material can release substances harmful to humans, therefore, special attention should be paid to the chemical composition of the tiles;

• resistance to wear, scratches, abrasion, etc. Since fireplace and stove tiles are installed for a long time, it is desirable that they do not change their aesthetic qualities during operation;

• low porosity of the tile material structure. The higher the porosity of the product, the lower its strength;

• low moisture absorption coefficient (up to 3%). An increase in the photoabsorption coefficient increases the porosity of the structure and reduces the strength of the tile;

• fire resistance. It is welcome to have a certificate containing data on what temperature conditions The use of facing tiles (fireproof) is allowed.

How to choose tiles for cladding stoves and fireplaces

A visual assessment of facing tiles will help you make the right choice. Professionals recommend paying attention to some parameters:

• the thickness of the tile and its elements must be the same. For different types of tiles, the thickness may vary. But on average, tiles for cladding have a thickness of 6-8 mm;

• identical geometric dimensions. To check, you need to attach the tiles to each other, first facing, then inside. They should fit tightly together so that there are no gaps. The unevenness of the front part will create a visual defect. On the wrong side - this will cause the tiles to fit poorly on the surface of the stove, which in turn will affect the quality of the finish.

Note. Experts say that the most preferable shape for tiles is a square with dimensions of 120x120 mm. Because As the length increases, the rigidity and strength of the tile decreases.

• By color scheme and the shade of the tiles and decorative elements should not differ from each other.

Advice. When buying tiles you need to take 15-20% more. Part will be spent on trimming the material, and part on replacement during operation. The safety stock will allow you to avoid the situation of purchasing from different batches when the shade will be different.

• the presence of cracks or chips on any side of the tile indicates that it is easily damaged (fragile);

Note. Cracks on the back side will cause the front part of the tile to burst under the influence of temperature.

Tile markings (designations)

The markings (designations on the tiles) printed on the packaging will help you tell which tiles to use for lining the stoves. Depending on the type of tile, the following can be used:

• The letter “T” means heat resistance.

• Numbers 1 and 2 against the background of the flame indicate the number of firings. The higher the better.

• The letter “E” and the number indicate water absorption. The higher the number, the more moisture the surface can absorb. For a furnace, the figure should not exceed 3%. For comparison, the water absorption of granite is 0.5%.

• The designations “A” or “B” on the packaging or the back of clinker tiles indicate the technology of its manufacture. Option “A” is more technologically advanced and has clear dimensions.

• The PEI index in gradation from I to V will indicate the wear resistance of the tile. You can use any oven.

• The EN 122 standard, ranging from A to D, indicates the resistance of a product to chemical attack.

Tile cost

The price of facing tiles and the reputation of the manufacturer are not the last argument when choosing. Experts advise not to save on purchases, because... Constantly replacing cheap tiles will ultimately cost more. The cost of tiles by type is shown in the table.

Based on this, it is easy to decide which tiles are needed for lining the stoves. But do not forget that the selected tile must correspond to the overall style of the interior of the room.

Types of facing tiles for stoves and fireplaces

We also note that all facing tiles for the stove are divided into two types: natural and artificial. Natural materials include: dolomite, quartzite, marble, granite, basalt, diabase, pebbles. And also some types of semi-precious stones: onyx, jasper, serpentine. Artificial tiles are those that have gone through a complex production cycle: extraction of raw materials, mixing of components, pressing, shaping, firing, painting, etc.

Having analyzed all the proposals for facing tiles that currently exist, we can conclude that only artificial fire-resistant tiles for the stove meet all of the listed requirements.

1. Terracotta tiles for stove (terracotta)

Terracotta tiles are made from a certain type of clay (kaolin clay). Heat-resistant tiles "Terracotta" have proven themselves as a facing material for stoves and fireplaces. After all, it is one of the oldest known types of tiles. Its specific characteristics are:

• terracotta colors of various shades. Terracotta is made in two types: glazed (two-layer consists of a base and a layer of glaze) and unglazed (single-layer has a natural or pigmented color). Due to their greater attractiveness, glazed terracotta tiles are used for cladding stoves.

• high strength.

Note. Due to its structure and vapor permeability, terracotta is recommended for lining stoves in bathhouses or saunas.
ease of care. In addition to its aesthetic properties, it is easier to maintain.

• excellent adhesion to any surface;

• fire resistance (heat resistance).

Note. The thermal expansion of terracotta tiles corresponds to a similar indicator for heat-resistant bricks, which are most often used to construct stoves and fireplaces.

• relatively low cost. Compared to other types of products for similar purposes.

• different geometry and texture. Allows you to create a drawing of any complexity.

2. Majolica tiles (Majolika)

These heat-resistant stove tiles are essentially an upgrade from glazed terracotta tiles. Therefore, their characteristics are similar. Terracotta and majolica differ only in the appearance of the front side of the tiles. At the same time, due to the fact that the majolica pattern is applied in a very thin layer, cracking of the surface is practically excluded.

Note. The porous structure of majolica precludes its use for lining a stove in a bathhouse, kitchen or other rooms with high humidity.

3. Tiles for stoves and fireplaces

4. Clinker tiles for stoves and fireplaces

This type of tile is available in two types: glazed and unglazed.

Characteristics of clinker tiles:

• naturalness. Unglazed clinker tiles for stoves are made without additives or pigments. This gives the tile the ability not to change color during the period of use;

• low water absorption (up to 2%);

• high strength;

• resistance to low and high temperatures. Therefore, clinker tiles can be used for lining the stove both indoors and outdoors;

• resistance to mechanical damage;

• the ability to implement any design project.

Note: clinker is not calibrated, therefore deviations from the specified size are allowed within +/- 3 mm.

Advice. It is not recommended to use clinker tiles for lining the internal walls of fireplaces. Too high a temperature and the inability to expand in the desired direction will cause the clinker to move away from the surface of the fireplace.

5. Porcelain tiles for the stove

Characteristics of porcelain stoneware:

• monolithic structure;

• strength;

• low moisture absorption. The lowest among existing materials. It is only 0.05%;

• resistance to low and high temperatures;

• wide range of colors and textures. Porcelain tiles can imitate any material: marble, granite, terracotta, majolica.

• the presence of additional corner elements.

Porcelain stoneware is a heat-resistant tile for stoves that can be used in baths, saunas, and for lining outdoor stoves. And also in rooms with inconsistent heating.

Can tiles be used for stoves?

There is no clear answer to this question, since the possibility is determined by the purpose of the furnace and the temperature of its surface. After all, tiles are not intended for use in conditions of temperature changes. Such tiles are laid on special compounds. In addition, the tiles for the stove must withstand high temperatures. Typically, such information is provided by the manufacturer. Thus, it is possible to tile the stove, but the result is not guaranteed.

Note. If you decide to use tiles for cladding the stove, then professionals advise using square tiles with a size of no more than 200x200 mm.

Tiles for stoves and fireplaces - interior photos

Conclusion

We hope that a review of existing tiles for lining stoves will help you make an informed choice and create not only a beautiful, but also durable lining for your stove with your own hands.

Any stove located in the house can be easily styled to match the interior of the room. For this, various materials are used that will preserve beauty and aesthetics for many years. Ideal option– fireproof tiles for the stove, thanks to which it will acquire a new and original look.

What kind of heat-resistant facing tiles should be used for stoves and fireplaces?

Considering that fireplaces and stoves are objects that can heat up to high temperatures, it is important to choose the right facing materials. They must meet the following requirements:

• Resistance to mechanical damage and strength;
• High level of heat resistance;
• The structure of the material must be low-porosity;
• Thickness – at least 0.7 cm.

Only a few types of material meet these requirements, including terracotta, clinker tiles, porcelain stoneware and tiles. They all have some differences in installation methods and design. You should choose based not only on your personal preferences, but also on the purpose of the room and the cost of the tiles. So, for example, if you are going to finish a stove in a bathhouse, it is important to take into account the thermal features, but with a stove in a room, look at whether it matches the style of the room.

Heat-resistant tiles for stoves - main types, features and characteristics

Today in stores you can find a wide variety of materials for decorative work on fireplaces. Naturally, each of them has its own key features and main characteristics - knowing them will allow you to make the right choice.

• Stylish and durable terracotta, considered the oldest material for cladding such structures. Terracotta is a product made from varieties of clay with high level porosity. First it is pressed, then exposed to high temperatures. This material was especially known in Ancient Greece, Rome in the manufacture of tiles, tiles and other elements. The main features are strength, characteristic red-brown tint (terracotta).
• Majolica. This material is also considered terracotta, only glazed. It got its name thanks to the Spanish island of Mayorsky, from where a variety of colorful tiles for decorative work and painted dishes were often brought. The unusual design is attractive, but this material is not cheap - even now it is considered a luxury for many homeowners.
• Clinker heat-resistant tiles are one of the types of ceramics that were created as an alternative facing bricks. They are made from different types of clay with the addition of mineral dyes and chamotte, then pressed and fired. As a result of this processing, a reliable material is obtained that is resistant to high temperatures. We are pleased with the presence of a wide range of color shades, including white, dark chocolate and soft beige. The thickness of the slabs reaches approximately 1 cm.
• The most modern type is porcelain stoneware, produced under high pressure from several types of clay and salts, marble chips, and various dyes. Due to the monolithic structure and temperature resistance, this type building material found the widest application in facing works. It should be noted that it can be used to easily simulate natural stone: terracotta, granite, clinker, majolica when decorating stoves.
• Tiles are unique fireproof ceramic tiles for fireplaces, decorated with glaze designs. It is made from clay and fired, with the main difference being the box-shaped shape. This increases not only the decorative qualities of the tiles, but also the heat-saving characteristics, and the hot air that is transferred when heating a stove decorated with tiles is considered the most environmentally friendly.
• Fireclay tiles are a fairly expensive material for facing fireplaces, since they are not produced in large numbers, but in single pieces. It is characterized by strength, moisture and heat resistance. The main difference from ceramic tiles is the variety of sizes, shapes and patterns, thanks to which you can decorate your stove in the most original way, adhering to the general style of the interior.

Stove tiles - nuances when facing

To ensure that fire-resistant tiles serve you as long as possible, be sure to use heat-resistant adhesive in your work. Choose formulations that are non-volatile compounds. This will save you from having to ventilate the room and work with open windows. To avoid poisoning during cladding, it is better to purchase an odorless solution.

There are some nuances when decorating outdoor stoves. So, the glue must be not only heat-resistant, but also moisture-resistant. The materials are laid on a pre-plastered surface, and the cut tiles are installed last. Whatever type of material you choose, the most important thing is to follow the correct installation technique, which will extend its service life.

Fireproof tiles for the stove - step-by-step installation instructions

First of all, calculate the amount of material required, and after the final calculations, add approximately 15% of the total. This additional purchase will allow you to make up for losses if the material gets spoiled, cut or damaged. If anything remains, save it for replacement, because during operation, cladding elements may also fall off and become damaged.

In addition, you must purchase:

• Crosses (2.5 mm.)
• Cutter
• Rubber spatula
• Trowel
• Paint brush
• Construction level
• Wire brush

Advice: purchase everything in advance, as this will speed up the work and save you energy.

Instructions:

How to line a stove with refractory tiles - step-by-step diagram

Step 1: Surface Cleaning

Before starting installation work, you should first clean the stove using a wire brush, removing dust and excess plaster. Don't forget to deepen the seams by 1 cm for better adhesion of materials. Next, we plaster the structure using a cement-sand mortar (1 part cement, 3 parts sand and water). Before starting this work, be sure to wet the surfaces of the fireplace with water using a paint brush. Make sure that the layers of material are even, using a level, since the ease of subsequent facing work will depend on this.

Step 2: Preparing for cladding

After cleaning the fireplace, be sure to fill the seams with putty, and also go over any existing cracks and potholes. A narrow-mesh fiberglass mesh is attached to the fireplace using construction nails and dowels - this will make application of the material easier.

Step 3: Laying the tiles

Once you have cleaned and plastered the fireplace, you need to begin installation. It is very important that you take your time, especially when working on the first row - it must be strictly horizontal, or the whole work will go awry. Laying should begin from the bottom row. It is important to carefully read the instructions when mixing the adhesive solution, which must be on the package.

Pay attention to the evenness of the installation of materials, for which you need to use crosses - one in the crosshair and several elements on each side of the tile. The composition is applied using a smooth grater to the reverse side and leveled with a spatula; its thickness should not exceed 5 mm. The refractory tile for the stove is applied to the wall, then it must be pressed and carefully aligned with plumbs and level. We do this with each next element.

Step 4: Checking the installation for evenness

Don’t forget to check the correct placement of the tiles and immediately correct any unevenness before the glue dries, otherwise it will be almost impossible to correct the defects. The cut elements of the tiles need to be placed last - if the work is carried out correctly, they will lie in the same plane. You can also check this using a building level.

After just a week, you can light the fireplace, starting with a small amount of wood.