Guide to Fireplaces

2nd October 2025

Choosing the right fireplace for your home can be a daunting task. With so many styles, fuel types, and designs to consider, you might be wondering what to consider before you buy and how it can potentially work in your living space.

At WM Boyle, we have been dedicated to helping customers find and install their perfect fireplace for over forty years, blending classic style with reliable expertise and service. We know that picking the right design goes beyond just looks; it’s about enhancing your home’s unique character and lifestyle.

Whether you’re leaning towards a cosy traditional wood-burning stove, a modern gas insert, or a hassle-free electric fireplace, this comprehensive guide will assist you in making the best choice for your home.

Marble Fireplaces

Marble fireplaces offer a timeless elegance, characterised by their smooth, polished surfaces and distinctive natural veining that adds depth and character to any room. Since each fireplace is made from natural stone, every piece is unique. If you want to make a bold statement, choose marble with thicker, more pronounced veining such as our Kingston Fire Surround.

Beyond their stunning looks, marble is durable and heat-resistant, making it an excellent choice for fireplace surrounds. However, it can be somewhat expensive and heavy, and if not sealed properly, it may stain. To keep it looking fresh, use a high-quality stone sealant and avoid acidic cleaners.

Marble fireplaces are especially fitting in classic homes like Victorian or Georgian styles, but they also provide a sleek, sophisticated touch to modern minimalist interiors. If you’d prefer a softer, natural look, consider a stone fireplace such as our Dacre Limestone Fireplace or Durrington Limestone Surround as an excellent alternative to marble that fits perfectly in rustic, farmhouse, or coastal-style homes.

FAQs About Marble Fireplaces

Can you paint a marble fireplace?

Yes, you can paint a marble fireplace, but it’s important to prepare it properly for the best results. The smooth, non-porous surface of marble needs to be cleaned with a degreaser, lightly sanded, and primed with a bonding primer to help the paint adhere.

For optimal results, use heat-resistant paint near the firebox and acrylic or latex paint on the surrounding areas. A clear, heat-resistant sealant can also add extra durability. While painting is a fantastic way to modernise an old fireplace, keep in mind that it’s a permanent change that could lower the natural value of the marble. When executed well, it can create a bold and stylish transformation.

What paint to use on a marble fireplace?

To paint a marble fireplace, start with a bonding primer to ensure the paint adheres well. Next, use acrylic or latex paint for the surround, and opt for heat-resistant paint around the firebox. Finally, apply a clear sealant to enhance durability. It’s best to avoid chalk paints and make sure all products are appropriate for stone surfaces.

How to clean a marble fireplace

It’s important to clean a marble fireplace the right way to avoid damage to the surface. Start by removing any loose dust or debris using a microfibre soft cloth and use specialised marble cleaner or mild dish soap and water to gently wipe the area, then dry immediately to prevent water spots. Avoid any cleaning solutions that contain acids such as lemon juice or vinegar as this can permanently damage the stone.

How to polish a marble fireplace

To maintain the beauty of your marble fireplace, begin by cleaning the surface with a pH-neutral cleaner and letting it dry. Then, take a soft cloth and apply a marble polish or polishing powder, working in circular motions. Buff it gently to enhance the shine. It’s important to steer clear of abrasive pads, and don’t forget to seal the marble afterward to preserve its polished finish.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular as a low-maintenance substitute for traditional fireplaces. They leverage LED technology and built-in heaters to simulate realistic flames and offer additional warmth without requiring a chimney or venting.

These units are ideal for modern homes, apartments, or rental spaces, as they can be easily installed—just plug them in and you’re set.

If you’re looking for a chic and practical solution for your living space, consider a hole-in-the-wall design like our Evonic Fires models. It features a sleek, modern aesthetic that not only conserves space and looks especially eye-catching, but comes in a range of sizes to suit all homes.

Advantages of electric fireplaces include energy efficiency, safety, remote control capabilities, and zero emissions. On the downside, they don’t create real flames or generate as much heat as gas or wood-burning options. For greater ambience, look for models that offer adjustable flame brightness and thermostatic control.

FAQs About Electric Fireplaces

Do electric fireplaces give off heat?

Although they don’t use real flames, electric fireplaces give off heat by using built-in electric heaters, such as fan-forced or infrared heating elements. While they may not produce as much heat as traditional wood or gas fireplaces, they are effective for additional heating in small to medium spaces and can be easily managed with a thermostat or remote control.

How much do electric fireplaces cost to run?

Running an electric fireplace can vary in cost depending on its wattage, how much you use it, and the electricity rates in your area. For instance, if you have a 1.5kW electric fireplace that operates for 5 hours a day at £0.28 per kWh, you would spend around £2.10 daily, which comes to about £63 monthly. If you’re just using the flame effect without any heat, the cost is significantly lower, roughly £0.10 per day.

Electric fireplaces are efficient for zone heating, providing warmth directly to the area you’re using. They are particularly well-suited for modern homes, flats, and places where you want extra heat without the need for complicated installations of traditional heating systems.

Cast Iron Fireplaces

Cast iron fireplaces are a classic favourite, loved for their durability and traditional charm. They hold and radiate heat well, making them super efficient at warming up a room. With their often intricate designs, they create a beautiful focal point—especially in period style houses and flats, Victorian terraces, and cosy cottages. Opt for a classic highlighted or black finish available in our range, such as the Palmerston Cast Iron Surround and Crown Cast Iron Insert.

The great thing about cast iron is that it lasts for years and never goes out of style. On the flip side, they’re pretty heavy and can rust if you don’t keep up with cleaning and occasional resealing.

FAQs About Cast-Iron Fireplaces

How do you clean a cast iron fireplace?

To clean a cast iron fireplace, make sure it’s completely cool first. Use a soft brush or cloth to get rid of any loose dust and soot on the surface. For tougher stains or rust spots, gently scrub with fine steel wool or a wire brush. Use WD40 spray to clean up polished cast iron.

After cleaning, dry the surface thoroughly to avoid rust. For additional protection, you might want to apply a thin layer of stove polish or heat-resistant black paint made for cast iron. Keeping up with regular cleaning and occasional polishing will ensure your fireplace stays looking great and rust-free.

How to install a cast iron fireplace?

Adding a cast iron fireplace to your home is a wonderful way to bring in some charm and character. Start by making sure the hearth area is clean and level. Place the fireplace carefully on a fireproof base or tiles.

If you’re using a wood-burning or gas model, ensure that the flue or chimney is properly connected to allow for safe ventilation and to prevent any smoke leaks. Seal any gaps with fire-resistant sealant and finish off with a surround or mantel. For safety-especially with gas or solid fuel setups—it’s essential to call in a professional installer.

Why Choose WM Boyle’s Fireplace and Stoves Range?

Wm Boyle is proud to be among Scotland’s leading suppliers of fireplaces, gas fires, electric fires, and wood-burning stoves. With more than 40 years of experience as a family-run business, we offer friendly and trustworthy expert advice. We can arrange a full installation service throughout Glasgow, the Central Belt, and the west of Scotland.

Visit our Glasgow showroom to explore our wide variety of styles—we’ll guide you through every step of finding the right fireplace for your home.

General FAQs about fireplaces

Can you mount a TV above a fireplace?

Yes, you can mount a TV above a fireplace, but you’ll want to take necessary precautions to ensure your screen is well ventilated. Common solutions include a heat shield or installing a shelf or mantel between the TV and fireplace to redirect the heat.

Consider an electric fire where you can turn the heat off or a widescreen shaped fire to leave more wall space to position your TV.