Are you tired of looking at a boring gas fireplace? Do you want to add a touch of elegance to your living room decor? If so, it's time to consider using lava rock for your gas fireplace. Lava stones have long been popular for gas fireplace accessories due to their aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.
These natural stones not only enhance the visual appeal of the fireplace, but also help improve its functionality. Lava stone has become popular among homeowners who want to give their gas fireplace a rustic, natural touch. They not only look good, but they also offer a lot of practical benefits.
This blog post will explore the benefits of using lava stone for your gas fireplace and other decorative accessories. We will also provide tips and guidance on installing and maintaining volcanic stone in your gas fireplace.
If you want to improve the appearance of your gas fireplace, volcanic stone can be the perfect solution. The lava stone for gas fireplaces is the perfect combination of beauty and functionality. So if you want to buy lava stone or need more information, read on.
Advantages of using lava stone for gas fireplaces
Lava stone fireplaces offer several advantages over real wood burning fireplaces. They allow you to create a realistic flame without using an open fire or accumulating large amounts of fuel such as firewood. There are several benefits to using volcanic stone for gas fireplaces, including:
Improving the appearance of your gas fireplace
The lava stone adds an authentic look to your gas fireplace and creates a realistic flame. The fire will burn blue without the lava stone, like in real wood stoves. However, this blue flame is not a very attractive sight for most people.
Create a more relaxing atmosphere
The glowing and crackling effect of the lava stone adds extra comfort to your home design. This makes it easy for you and your family or guests to relax when you gather around the fireplace.
Improve the performance of your gas fireplace
The lava stone can increase the heat production and output efficiency of your gas fireplace. They create a more intense and realistic flame, making it easier to heat a larger room like your living room.
Best lava stone for gas fireplaces
One of the most popular products on the market is washed lava stone, which is ideal for most fireplaces. They are made from volcanic rock that is crushed into small pieces before being packaged for sale. Here are some of the best lava stones for gas fireplaces:
Grand Canyon Gas Lava Rock
Grand Canyon Gas Lava Rocks are made from molten volcanic rock from the Grand Canyon. They are ideal for creating a realistic flame in gas fireplaces due to their natural appearance. The lava stone can accommodate most fireplaces and fits snugly inside the vent. They will also provide enough space to accommodate your ducts.
American Guys Design Gas Lava Rock
The American Fyre Design Gas Lava Rocks are made of volcanic rock from the USA. They create a realistic flame on gas fireplaces, but are also suitable for those without a simulated flame. Stones are produced in three sizes ranging from small and medium to larger types that can withstand extra heat output.
2"-3" outdoor polished lava rock more
The Outdoor Plus 2"-3" polished lava stone does not come in boxes and must therefore be pre-assembled. They are made of hard plastic, which makes them good for both indoor and outdoor use. By using these rocks, you can create the same warm glow that you can find in real volcanic stone fireplaces. It's a great way to enjoy the benefits of a gas fireplace while enjoying a more natural, rustic setting.
HPC Lava Rock
HPC Lava Rock is a popular choice among consumers who use gas fireplaces. It also has other benefits such as increased heat output and improved flame effects. HPC consists of multiple components fused together to create strong, lightweight cubes. The rocks come in a variety of sizes and get their distinctive color thanks to strontium oxide added during the manufacturing process.
How to install lava stone in your gas fireplace?
If you've already decided which lava stones to buy, it's time to think about how to install them. Fortunately, installing them on a gas fireplace is relatively simple. You will need some kind of device that can lift the stones and place them carefully. Fortunately, the installation process is much easier than many people think. Before you begin, however, make sure you have enough room to accommodate the size and weight of the volcanic rocks.
Step 1: Preparing the area
The first thing you need to do is clear the area of all flammable objects. Includes wood, trash and other things that can catch fire during installation. Remove any vent panels or grates in your fireplace and remove the fireplace screen if applicable. You will also need to remove any mantels unless you are placing the stones on top. Provide at least 2 inches of space between flames and surrounding walls or structures.
Step 2: Placing the stones in place
If there is enough space, you can place the lava stones in place by placing them near the fireplace ceiling. Once you've chosen where to place the stones, use pliers to gently lift them one at a time and place them on top of your mantle. Stones should also be placed to be covered with fire retardant material.
Step 3: Cover the lava rocks with refractory material
Once you have secured the stones and secured the space around them, cover them with fireproof material such as aluminum foil. Make sure the material is thick enough to protect the lava stones from damage during installation.
Step 4: Mounting the ventilation grill
Once you've covered the lava rocks, you can put in the ventilation grill or any other type of screen that was removed during installation. If a screen is already in place, simply attach it to the existing brackets on each side of the fireplace.
Step 5: Adjusting the flame settings
Now that you've installed the lava stones, it's time to consider how they will affect your flame settings. The initial settings must be adjusted to match those used before installation. Be aware that they will not change immediately, but gradually over time as they get warmer with use.
Step 6: Exploitation of the lava rock
The final step is to enjoy your new lava stones and your added improvement to your gas fireplace. Use them regularly until they lose their luster, after which you can simply buy a new set to replace them.
How do you choose the right lava stones for your gas fireplace?
Knowing where to start to learn more about lava stone for gas fireplaces can't be easy. One of the biggest problems is choosing the right lava stones for your gas fireplace. Here are some things to consider when making your decision:
size and weight
Lava rocks come in a variety of sizes, including thicker and thinner options. It can be difficult to know whether a particular stone is suitable for your fireplace. Ideally, you want the lava rock to fit snugly into your fireplace without falling into holes or cracks. You also want them to be light enough to easily lift or push them into place.
Waterproofing
Sometimes you want to protect the lava rocks from getting wet. This can be done by covering them with a fireproof material such as aluminum foil or an iron grid. Again, different furnace styles may require additional protection of the lava stones. You should also consider whether you intend to remove the lava stones after some time. If you plan to remove them, make sure they don't chip or crumble if exposed to direct sunlight after installation.
Taken
The price of lava stone for gas fireplaces can range from affordable to quite expensive, depending on the size, shape and number of stones you wish to purchase. While some popular models cost more than others, it's often worth paying a little more if your budget allows. While some stones can cost upwards of $50, others can cost as little as $5 each. stone. The price of volcanic rocks will depend a lot on the type of rock, the packaging materials and even the way they are boxed at both ends.
Materials
Lava stone is found in many materials, including stone, ceramic and glass. Each of these options has different aesthetic properties and characteristics. For example, glass stones are attractive because they can be colored to create a unique effect. However, they can also be more fragile than ceramic and stone types.
Conclusion
Lava stone is an excellent choice for adding a touch of natural beauty to your gas fireplace. They improve the aesthetic appeal of your fireplace and provide an extra layer of protection for your burner, preventing damage from high temperatures. With a wide range of colors and sizes, you can easily adapt your fireplace so that it matches your decor. So whether you're looking for a modern or traditional fireplace, volcanic stone is sure to add warmth and beauty to your home.
FAQs
What is the purpose of lava rocks in a gas fireplace? ›
Intended to be used on the floor of your firebox, the Lava Rock helps to create a realistic rock bed. AMERICAN GAS LOG's Lava Rock will also help hide any gas lines or unsightly controls and allow the focus to be on the beauty of the gas log set.
Are lava rocks good for gas fireplace? ›Fire glass and lava rock, should only be used with units that utilize natural gas or propane. Never use either in a wood burning fireplace. Here are some tips, to keep the media in your gas fireplace or insert working well for years to come.
How much lava rock do I need for my gas fireplace? ›We recommend a minimum 2” of lava rock depth for most installations. For example, a 20" fire pit at the recommended 2” of lava rock depth: 20 X 20 X 2 / 19 = 42 lbs.
How do you arrange lava rocks on a gas fire? ›If your burner is the type that is meant to be fully covered with lava rock, it should be no more than half an inch below the lava rock. If you have the crossfire burner with jets they need to be left exposed or you can position the lava rock in a way that the air intake on the side of the jet is unobstructed.
How often should you change lava rocks in a gas fireplace? ›However, over time, the rocks will break down and deteriorate. Depending on how often your fireplace is enjoyed, the lava rocks will need to be replaced every 1-2 years.
What is the best stone around a gas fireplace? ›Granite is suited for gas or wood fireplaces. Since granite is a very popular type of stone, there are hundreds of unique colours and patterns to choose from. The versatility and durability of granite makes it a great choice for any fireplace surround, no matter the setting.
What is the best stone for gas fireplace? ›Perhaps the most popular option for a fireplace surround, granite is one of the most durable materials you can buy. It's extremely scratch resistant, unlikely to crack or chip, and it has good heat tolerance. Granite is suitable for gas or wood burning fireplaces.
What is better than lava rocks? ›Fire glass is a better choice than lava rock if you want to add color, sparkle, and sophistication to your gas fire feature.
How much does 10 pounds of lava rock cover? ›Our 10 lbs bags of lava rock typically covers a 10x10x2 area, but if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Why are my lava rocks popping? ›Lava rock which is wet or has moisture inside can pop or burst causing pieces of hot rock to fly out of the fire pit.
What do you put at the bottom of a gas fireplace? ›
Artificial burning embers are designed to be placed underneath the burner in your gas fireplace. They do a wonderful job imitating the look of the real wood fireplace. There are several types of glowing embers. Rock wool is the most common type.
Should lava rocks cover the burner in a gas fire pit? ›For gas fires, fill the fire pit with enough lava rock to at least cover the fire ring. Do not use rock or gravel of any kind in place of lava rock; it can potentially explode when heated. There are, however, some special glasses and ceramic “stones” that you can use.
How many bags of lava rock do I need? ›| Fire Pit Size | Number of Lava Rock (657) Bags Needed |
|---|---|
| 54X16″ | 4 Bags |
| 66X16″ | 6 Bags |
| 78X16″ | 6 Bags |
| 90X16″ | 8 Bags |
- Photo gallery. Display a gallery of photos or mementos that fit the color scheme of your home. ...
- Decorative mirror. A large decorative mirror will also help fill the space above your fireplace and provide added dimension. ...
- TV.
Choose Complementary Paint
To give a more traditional fireplace a youthful feel, paint the surrounding walls an unexpected color and decorate the room with eclectic furniture, modern art, and Avant grade light fixtures. Romanek Design Studio opted for a dusty rose tone to complement the warmer grains in the marble.
And lava rock is the perfect home for beneficial bacteria that will help process fish wastes, improving your water quality. But, lava rock should be cleaned and sterilized before it's put in your tank to make sure harmful bacteria don't hitch a ride into your aquarium.
Does lava rock fade over time? ›Low maintenance – Unlike organic mulch, lava rock does not disintegrate or decompose. It lasts a very long time and requires almost no maintenance. Add it in your yard and forget about it. You don't even have to worry about replacing it for a while.
How do you keep lava rocks clean? ›You can also place rocks in a large container of water overnight to sanitize them. To deep clean your rocks, you can use a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. After cleaning your rocks, you should let them dry completely before placing them back in their landscape beds.
What type of gas fireplace puts out the most heat? ›Ventless gas fireplaces emit the highest amount of heat with 100% efficiency and are eco-friendly. They have the look and feel of a traditional fireplace, but don't require a chimney. Instead, heated air is recirculated around the room and back into the fireplace keeping the space warm and cozy.
Do you need stone in front of a gas fireplace? ›An apron of marble or granite tile directly in front of your fireplace is common, but not necessary. Gas fireplaces will not damage flooring or other materials that are in close proximity, like a wood-burning fireplace would.
How to choose fireplace stone color? ›
Take a look at your fireplace and decide whether the stone color feels more warm or cool to you. Warm tones might include tans, browns, and red or orange tints. Cool tones often include a range of grays with just a subtle tint of blue or green.
Which gas fireplace has the most realistic flame? ›Peterson Real Fyre Gas Logs are the most realistic gas logs because they are meticulously hand-crafted to resemble natural wood and carefully designed and arranged to produce a flame that looks just like a real wood fire.
What are the benefits of a stone fireplace? ›A stone fireplace projects a warm, cozy atmosphere. Using natural stones in constructing your fireplace also gives it a distinct look. Natural stones can also help retain heat from your fireplace. It radiates heat longer than other materials, which means you can enjoy a warmer room for a longer period.
What is the downside of lava rock? ›Lava rocks can be difficult to clean.
This can be difficult to clean, making the area in which they've been placed look messy. In addition to this, once the lava rocks have lodged into the soil, it can be difficult to dig them out if you want to move them.
Disadvantages of Using Lava Rock
These are: Lava rocks aren't the best possible choice of mulch because they don't add nutrients to the soil though they can make the soil hold water a bit longer. It is difficult and expensive to remove lava rock mulch notes SFGate. They can also damage lawn mowing equipment.
The difference between Rock and Stone and is that Rock refers to raw material in situ whilst Stone depicts human intervention. Basically all stones have been rock at some point, but not all rocks become stones. They're a bit more special.
How many times can you use lava rocks? ›With traditional use, lava rocks should last for about two years before replacements are required because of the build-up of grease, which can affect flavor, as well as the natural deterioration of the lava rocks from frequent heating and cooling after use.
Can you use lava rock for indoor fireplace? ›Great to use with indoor and outdoor natural gas and propane fireplaces or fire pits, these natural lava rocks are very easy to install and low maintenance.
Does lava stone have value? ›Raw lava stones, for instance, start around $5-10 for smaller decorative pieces. Prices increase for larger pieces.
Do lava rocks get moldy? ›Lava rocks are a common element in landscaping, but unless you use them properly, they are prone to growing mold. The mold on your lava rocks can spread to your plants, inhibiting their growth and creating allergy-related problems.
Can you get lava stone wet? ›
Do not wear your Lava Stone Bracelet in the Bath or Shower they should be removed prior to bathing or showering.
What is the white stuff on lava rock? ›Its either mold or minerals leaching from the lava rock.
How high should a gas fireplace be off the floor? ›A fireplace can be mounted on the wall at any height as long as it meets the installation requirements. 40-42 inches is a popular height from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace because it can then be seen from a seated position.
Should a gas fireplace have a hearth? ›Do Gas and Electric Fireplaces Need a Hearth? While glass front gas fires do still require a hearth, electric fireplaces do not have as many requirements. In fact, most electric fires don't require a hearth at all! Nevertheless, hearths remain popular even when they are not strictly necessary.
Can I use glass beads in my gas fireplace? ›Fire glass is also completely safe to add to gas fireplaces, too. This is because of the chemical treatment that the glass has gone through, in order to ensure that it is completely heat resistant. This is why fire glass will not crack, melt, shatter, or produce toxic fumes, as regular untreated glass would.
Should you cover a gas fire pit when not in use? ›Does a Gas Fire Pit Need a Cover? Although rekindling flames and stray embers are unlikely with gas firepits, a protective cover is still ideal to protect it from rain and other outdoor elements.
What is the difference between red and black lava rock? ›The basaltic lava starts out black, but oxidation of iron during eruption and emplacement of the scoria turns it red.
How do I calculate how much decorative rock I need? ›Determining How Much Rock You Need
To calculate the amount of landscaping rocks you need in cubic yards, first measure the length and width of the area you're working with. Then, multiply those numbers by the desired depth of coverage in feet. Finally, divide that total by 27 to convert it to cubic yards.
' Their widespread use is with good reason – they are extremely durable, essentially permanent mulch, and provide all the same benefits without the need for replacement every 6-12 months. Lava rocks provide a weed and insect barrier, and help conserve water.
How do you arrange lava rocks in a gas fireplace? ›If your burner is the type that is meant to be fully covered with lava rock, it should be no more than half an inch below the lava rock. If you have the crossfire burner with jets they need to be left exposed or you can position the lava rock in a way that the air intake on the side of the jet is unobstructed.
Is it OK to go to bed with embers in fireplace? ›
You should never leave your fireplace burning and unattended overnight while you sleep. This represents a major safety hazard.
How do I get more orange flame in my gas fireplace? ›Open the Damper
The amount of ventilation will control the color of the flames. Lowering the air input will adjust the flames and provide the orange and yellow tip to them. Changing the damper or closing the air shutter will allow for different air input and, hopefully, bring the flames back!
Never burn anything without a protective layer of lava rock on the fire pit bottom. If burning wood, place a layer of lava rock at least 4-5 inches deep. Then place your firewood on the lava rock. For gas fires, fill the fire pit with enough lava rock to at least cover the fire ring.
How often should you replace lava rocks? ›With traditional use, lava rocks should last for about two years before replacements are required because of the build-up of grease, which can affect flavor, as well as the natural deterioration of the lava rocks from frequent heating and cooling after use.
What do you put in the bottom of a gas fireplace? ›Artificial burning embers are designed to be placed underneath the burner in your gas fireplace. They do a wonderful job imitating the look of the real wood fireplace. There are several types of glowing embers. Rock wool is the most common type.
Can lava rock be used indoors? ›Lava rock is suitable for use in all indoor and outdoor propane or natural gas firepits and can also be used indoors and outdoors in all your landscaping and special project needs.
What do you put under lava rocks? ›Adding moss or soil to the lava rock helps with drainage, which can help prevent roots from getting stuck. Stone Borders – If you're looking to add color to gardens and walkways, you can use lava rocks to create a natural stone border.
Do lava rocks need to be cleaned? ›First off, you'll need to clean off any dust or dirt that's on the surface of the lava rock. This kind of rock can really hold onto a lot of dirt because the surface is so porous. Getting it clean is really simple.
What do you put on the floor in front of a gas fireplace? ›An apron of marble or granite tile directly in front of your fireplace is common, but not necessary. Gas fireplaces will not damage flooring or other materials that are in close proximity, like a wood-burning fireplace would.
How should a gas fireplace flame look? ›A healthy, properly burning flame on gas appliances should be blue in color, sometimes with a tiny tip of yellow, with a little light blue triangle at the center. This blue color flame indicates that there is safe, efficient and more complete fuel combustion.
Can you put too many embers in gas fireplace? ›
Don't add too many, the flame needs room to come up through the embers. I doesn't look like much with the fireplace off. When the flame hits the glowing embers, you get a really nice glow effect!