Sunday, May 24, 2009

Evolution of Marble Fireplace Over Time

For centuries, people have used marble as a material to make beautiful fireplaces. Examples of such old fireplaces can be found even today- a fact that itself proves the durability of marble. At the same time it also proves the suitability of marble as material to construct a fireplace. There are several marble types, which have been popular for several centuries. Estromoz from Portugal, Botticino and Carrara from Italy, are examples of such marble types. These marbles can be used to make excellent fireplaces.

Nowadays, one can find many different natural marble types. The variety of shades, colors, and marking, have been possible as it is quarried from different parts of the world. These days, one can find colorful and beautiful marbles from Egypt, Norway, Spain, Brazil, India and China. Most of them are much more affordable than they had been before.

Two centuries earlier, marble fireplaces were highly expensive. It could be afforded by people who were really wealthy. Sometimes, people used marble to make some parts of the fireplace. In this way, they could have the elegance of marble at a low cost. The other parts of the fireplace were made with other materials like wood, sandstone, slate or limestone. Thus limited quantity of marble was effectively used to enhance the beauty of the fireplace.

These days, it is quite natural to use marble in back and hearth. This makes the price reasonable. It also provides practical solution for electric and gas fires. Marble can tolerate high temperatures. Thus, it is the best solution for fuel fires. Apart from this, the individuality, prestige and beauty of marble makes it best option for fireplace material. A marble fireplace has always provided an excellent backdrop for the room.

Fireplaces are not restricted to the houses in cold regions. Beautiful fireplaces can be the focal point in any house. If the fireplace is designed properly then it can be the substitute of any art work. One can make the fireplace depending on the style he prefers. The choices of fireplace can be traditional, contemporary or rustic. Materials and styling of marble should be selected based on the choice of a person.

With the advancement of technology, fireplace and materials needed to surround the fireplace have increased significantly. A person can find more styling choices these days. Nowadays, there are direct vent. The gas fireplaces do not need any chimney. They vent out from back or top of unit, which gives maximum flexibility for styling and placement. The homeowners who want to give new look to the house need to replace the old tiles with new ones. If the marble was well-maintained then the room would get a cozy look within a small time.

The prices of marble fireplaces have come down significantly through years. One can find certain types of natural marbles at a cheaper rate. In the last two decades man made marbles have been introduced in the market. They are also affordable for the common man who has a low budget.

However, the good quality natural marbles are still expensive. These marbles have varied colors and textures. One can use these marbles to add some uniqueness to the room. But the artificial marbles are plainer and do not have much shades or colors. Whatever be your choice it can be said without doubt that effective use of marble will enhance the value of your house.

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