If the tile you want is face mounted, it would probably be better left to a pro. If you can find it back mounted, though, I don't see why it wouldn't work as a DIY project. one thing though-- I'm assuming this is just a fireplace INSERT, and not an actual woodburning fireplace? If it IS a traditional fireplace, then glass tile would not be the best thing for it. Not by a long shot.

Thanks Bill! It IS an actual woodburning fireplace, and although it isn't functional right now (cracked flue and the like), I'm planning on getting it repaired so that I can use it.

If I want a tile look, then would I be ok if I used ceramic tile? If yes, do you know if they make ceramic time with an iridescent finish? Would this be an acceptable use for it?

Me again, :o)

Bumping in hopes that this post doesn't disappear before you get a chance to respond.

I am curious about the ceramic question too. I was looking at ceramic tiles the other day to surround my fireplace. Anyone know what can and can't go around fireplaces?

Ceramic tile would be fine. Unfortunately, I don't know of any that have that iridescent coloring to them, without going to the mother of pearl tiles which are ungodly expensive (someone posted a link to some a couple of years ago that were 473.00 a square foot).

As for what you can and can't use, I don't think I'd want a tile with a soft glaze on it, such as tiles specifically for walls (PEI of 2 or less), or obviously, glass. Pretty much anything else would work.

Sorry it took so long to answer-- I put in a 16 hour day yesterday. :-)

Thanks so much Bill! I can sympathize with working long hours too, and I really appreciate you taking the time to respond.

I bought a book on fireplaces and in there it says they make inserts for woodburning fireplaces. Do you know if that would solve my problem? Or would there still be too much heat? I really, really love the look of glass, so I'm trying to see if there's a way to do this.

If you were to use an insert, you could use just about anything for your surround. The problem with normal conventional fireplaces is that the heat literally billows out and up, and the tiles immediately above the fireplace are then subjected to extreme heat. I don't know about you, but years ago, when I had a fireplace, I got it hot enough to bend the cast iron log rack! A couple of good size pieces of hardwood and some good coals is all it takes.

Oh YAY! Thanks for the info Bill, I'm so glad to hear that an insert will solve my problem! :o)

bill, so if i'm getting a gas fireplace does this mean i can use the mother of pearl tile? i can get it from china from a vendor for just under $15 a square foot. please say YES!

and btw: the mop tile from the fancy tile stores have come down. they're only $167 a square now. everyone RUN!

Kate--

YES!size>

:-)

bill,

i LOVE you!
happy valentine's day!!!