Ready Made hearths are pre-cut, standard-sized fireplace hearths that come in specific shapes and dimensions, ready for installation. These hearths are ideal for those who don't require custom sizes and can either install the hearth as is or trim it to fit with the help of a tradesman. They offer a convenient, cost-effective solution for those who need a quick, hassle-free option for their fireplace, without the need for bespoke measurements or extended waiting times.

A honed finish refers to a smooth, matte surface achieved by grinding the slate to a uniform texture. This process enhances the stone's natural color and provides a sleek, contemporary appearance.

Honed Slate fireplace hearths typically come with quarry sawn edges. This quarry-cut finish results in clean, straight lines, though there may be occasional small chips or imperfections, which is typical for natural stone. This is the reason the costs of ready-made hearths are kept lower.

If any chips are visible, they can easily be trimmed off when cutting to size or placed at the back during installation, ensuring a smooth and polished final look. This makes it easy to tailor the hearth to fit your space while maintaining the elegance of the honed surface.

Honed slate hearths often arrive slightly larger than advertised dimensions, allowing for precise trimming during installation. This ensures a perfect fit in your space. For exact dimensions, consider our bespoke custom-size options.

Yes, honed slate can be cut to size using a high-quality angle grinder equipped with a diamond blade suitable for stone. After cutting, smooth the edges with sandpaper or a diamond polishing pad to achieve the desired finish. Ensure you follow safety guidelines when handling cutting tools.

Yes, Ready Made hearths are generally more affordable than custom-made options. Since they come in standard sizes and don't require bespoke measurements or additional cutting, they offer a cost-effective solution. Custom-made hearths, on the other hand, are tailored to your exact specifications, which involves additional labour and material costs. Ready Made hearths provide a high-quality, budget-friendly option for those who don't need specific dimensions or are able to adjust the size themselves.

Honed slate is a versatile and durable material, making it suitable for various fireplace types, including wood-burning, gas, and electric fireplaces. Its heat resistance and contemporary appearance complement both traditional and modern interior designs.

If you prefer a finished edge, such as a bevelled or bullnosed edge, we recommend opting for a custom-made hearth. Ready-made hearths come with a machine-sawn edge, which is not fully finished, and may show slight imperfections. For a polished, refined look with edges like bevelled or bullnosed, our bespoke service can provide precisely the finish you desire. Simply select the custom size and edge options during the ordering process to get the perfect hearth for your space.