Tips for tiling around a fire pit
Tips for tiling around a fire pit
Tile options for a fire pit
There are a number of tile choices for creating a timeless outdoor entertainment area. Natural stone tiles are all unique in appearance and will provide you with a one-of-a-kind floor and wall area thanks to the distinctive colours, patterns and character of the tiles. Tip: Remember to seal these tiles as they are quite porous.
Wood-look tiles are also a great option for outdoors, creating a warm natural look without the maintenance normally required of wooden products. For a modern industrial look, concrete look tiles come in a range of hues to suit your taste.
Always check with the tile manufacturer/supplier that the tile is suitable for this type of installation.
Don’t tile inside the fire pit
It is important to note that you should only tile the outside of the fire pit and around the pit area, and not inside the fire pit, as the elevated temperatures will most certainly result in degradation of the adhesive and damage to the tiles over time. Basically, if the installation area is too hot to touch, it is too hot to tile with tile adhesives.
Getting started with the fire pit project
Before tiling your fire pit, ensure that the substrate is firm, clean, dry, and free from dust and contaminants. This is to ensure a good bond onto the substrate.
Prime your surface to ensure better adhesion onto the substrate before tiling, particularly if the surface is steel floated (i.e. a smooth, dense finish). Use a primer slurry coat consisting of 1 part TAL Keycoat mixed with 2 parts TAL Keymix powder primer (by volume) and apply with a block brush. Allow the slurry coat to dry before you install the tiles.
Adhesive systems that can handle the heat of a fire pit
Modified adhesive and grout systems, which can handle the heat and resultant thermal expansion and contraction of the tiles, are important for this type of installation.
Use a high-strength adhesive system, such as TAL Goldstar 6, and use TAL Bond as a total water replacement in the adhesive and grout mix for enhanced flexibility. This adhesive system will withstand exposure to temperatures up to 65°C – 70°C for prolonged periods. If higher temperatures are anticipated, it would be best to use a special heat-resistant, or high alumina cement for your fire pit.
Finishing the fire pit
The installation should be allowed to dry for a minimum of 7 days before you light that first welcoming fire. All that’s left is to put out the chairs, and invite your friends and family to enjoy your new fire pit.
If you have any questions, or are in doubt about how to tile your outdoor entertainment area, call our Technical Advice Line or send us an email.
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