How to Tile a Fireplace Hearth: 4 TopTips for a Professional Finish
A fireplace is often the heart of a Victorian home, and the hearth is its stage. When well finished, it not only provides a practical base but also frames the fireplace beautifully, setting the tone for the entire room.
In a recent project for a lovely couple in Beckenham, I was asked to complete the renovation of their Victorian bedroom by restoring the fireplace hearth. It’s a small area compared to decorating the whole space, but one where precision and detail make all the difference. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the process, along with my top tips for achieving a professional result.
Step 1: Assess and Prepare the Base
The first step in any hearth tiling project is checking the concrete base. In this bedroom, the base was still sound, but a few corners had broken away over time. I repaired these areas to create a level surface that would properly support the tiles.
Tip: Always take time to repair and prepare the base before tiling. A weak or uneven surface will compromise the finish and longevity of the tiles.
Once repaired, I fully sealed the base with diluted PVA. This prevents the surface from absorbing moisture and ensures that the adhesive bonds correctly.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Materials
The homeowners selected tiles from Rovic Tiles, which provided both durability and a timeless look suited to the period character of the house. For the trim, I sourced products from Genesis Global Systems.
Rather than cutting 45-degree angles into standard trims, I opted for their Genesis 12mm Brushed Brass Aluminium External Corners. This decision had two key advantages:
It created a crisp, professional finish without the risk of uneven mitre cuts.
It ensured a safer edge — especially important in a bedroom where bare feet are common.
Tip: Don’t overlook trims and finishing details. They’re not just decorative; they make the difference between a DIY feel and a professional, long-lasting result.
Step 3: Tiling the Hearth
With the base sealed and materials ready, I laid the tiles carefully, checking alignment and spacing as I went. Precision is key — even in a small area like a hearth, uneven cuts or gaps will be very noticeable once finished.
In this project, I tiled the hearth before fixing the trims and corners. This isn’t always the sequence you’d follow on a wall, but here it was crucial: the trims had to be cut to the millimetre to fit neatly with the brass external corners and stop exactly where they should around the tiles. This ensured a seamless, professional finish without gaps or misalignment.
Once the tiles were lined up and spaced correctly, I allowed the adhesive to set before grouting the joints. Finally, I polished the surface, bringing out the richness of the tiles and ensuring a clean, crisp look that complemented the brass trims.
Tip: Don’t assume the same installation order works everywhere. Sometimes adjusting your sequence is the only way to achieve the perfect fit. Also, don’t rush the finishing stage — neat grouting and polishing are what give the hearth its sharp, professional look.
Step 4: Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the hearth was complete, I turned my attention to the fireplace itself. Using Sophie James Decor Paint ‘Blackest Black’, I refreshed the cast iron surround. The result was a rich, deep black finish that brought out the decorative details and gave the entire fireplace a renewed sense of presence in the bedroom.
Tip: Don’t forget the fireplace surround. A freshly painted cast iron frame can transform the overall look just as much as the tiled hearth.
Key Takeaways
Preparation is everything. Repair and seal the base before tiling to create a strong foundation.
Sequence matters. On a hearth, laying tiles first (before trims) can be the best approach, as it allows trims and corners to be cut to the millimetre for a seamless fit.
Invest in trims. External corners give a safer, sharper finish and remove the need for tricky mitre cuts.
Plan your layout. Dry lay your tiles and trims in advance to avoid misalignment.
Think holistically. Refreshing the fireplace surround alongside the hearth elevates the entire bedroom.
Closing Thoughts
Fireplace hearths may seem like a small part of a renovation, but they often anchor the look and feel of a whole room. In this Beckenham Victorian bedroom, success came down to preparation and precision — repairing the base, sealing properly, and adjusting the installation sequence so the trims and corners aligned perfectly.
Combined with carefully chosen tiles, brushed brass details, and a refreshed cast-iron surround, the result is a finish that is both practical and refined.
It’s a reminder that in period homes, the small decisions and details often make the biggest difference.
📍 Based in South East London, I’ve worked on numerous Victorian and Edwardian properties across Beckenham, Crystal Palace and the local area. If you’re considering restoring a fireplace or renovating a period home, feel free to get in touch — I’d be happy to help bring your project to life.