Hi all
I've long had a notion to rip out the ugly brick fireplace in my old cottage and rebuild it to my own design, in either a more-rustic-looking brick or alternatively, white limestone.
I wondered if anyone had any comments on the pros and cons of either material. If I use the limestone (which I can get for next to nothing where I live, because it's lying around all over the place, due to the geology of the area) it'll be very irrgular sized pieces, which will mean that the stone and its joints will tent to collect dust and perhaps be a chore to keep clean.
Obviously, brick would be an easier material to work with due to the uiniformity of shape and the ease of cutting. I've seen some attractive old-style bricks with some interesting colours in them, but I'd have to buy them for top dollar at Jewsons. I feel that the colour of bricks gives give a welcome impression or warmth even when there is no fire in place - whereas white limestone arguably has a colder look. My cottage is old - built in 1850s, so any modern brick (no matter how rustic-looking) is going to end up looking contemporary. The room where the fireplace is, has heavy oak beams in the ceiling, so perhaps the stone would look more natural authentic, as it's ubiquitous to the area.
I was once a trained brickie and used to build houses with rough stone, so either material woild be a synch to work with for me.
Any input would be much appreciated. I thought I'd ask here first, rather than just toss a coin ......and then wish I'd chosen the other option!
Regards,
JakeD