What Is the Stone Around a Fireplace Called? Surround, Mantel and Hearth
What is the stone around a fireplace called? The stone around a fireplace is called the fireplace surround. The other main parts are the hearth, the stone on the floor in front of the opening; the mantel, the shelf above it; and the firebox, the opening where the fire burns. Knowing these names helps you describe exactly what you want and get an accurate estimate.
Summary
- Surround: the stone on the wall around the opening.
- Hearth: the stone on the floor in front of the opening.
- Mantel: the shelf above the opening.
- Firebox: the opening itself, set by the fireplace unit.
The Parts of a Fireplace
| Part | Where it is | Usually made of |
|---|---|---|
| Surround | Wall around the opening | Stone, tile or brick |
| Legs | Vertical sides of the surround | Same as the surround |
| Header | Horizontal piece above the opening | Same as the surround |
| Hearth | Floor in front of the opening | Stone, flush or raised |
| Mantel | Shelf above the surround | Wood or stone |
| Firebox | The opening itself | Part of the fireplace unit |
Flush or Raised Hearth?
A flush hearth sits level with the floor and keeps the room open. A raised hearth sits higher and doubles as a seat, which suits family rooms. The choice changes the stone pieces and how the room is used.
How to Describe Your Fireplace Project
When you ask for an estimate, tell us which parts you want in stone, the size of the opening, the fireplace type and whether the hearth is flush or raised. A photo of the current fireplace helps. For stone choices, read our guide on best stone for fireplace surround; for budget, our guide on stone fireplace surround cost. See our fireplace surrounds, or browse kitchen and bath design ideas.
We fabricate the surround and the hearth from your slab and install them up to 7 business days after measurement. We do not build mantels, and every surround carries our 1-year warranty on fabrication and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the stone around a fireplace called?
The surround. The stone on the floor in front is the hearth.
What is the shelf above a fireplace called?
The mantel.
Is a hearth required?
Many fireplaces require a non-combustible hearth. Check your fireplace manual and local code.
Can the mantel be stone?
Mantels can be stone or wood. At Cornerstone we install the stone surround and hearth, and we don't make mantels.
Do you install the fireplace unit?
No. We install the stone; the unit and any gas line are handled by a qualified installer.
