Are Brick Slips Heat-Resistant? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Using Them Around Your Fireplace

If you’re thinking about giving your fireplace a bit of a makeover, brick slips are a brilliant way to get that traditional exposed brick look without the hassle (or mess) of full-sized bricks. But before you start sticking them up, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Are brick slips safe to use around heat?”

In short — yes, they are! But there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure your fireplace is not only stylish but safe too.

What Exactly Are Brick Slips Made From?

Brick slips are usually made from the same stuff as real bricks — clay, cement or concrete — just much thinner. Think of them as slices of a full brick, designed to give the same look without the bulk.

If you're using clay brick slips, especially the kiln-fired kind, you’re in good hands — they’re made to cope with high temperatures and are often used around stoves and fireplaces.

Where Can You Use Brick Slips Safely?

You can use brick slips on most parts of your fireplace, including:

• The surround

• The chimney breast

• The wall behind a stove or fire

But here’s the key bit: if you’re thinking of putting brick slips inside the actual firebox (where the flames are), that’s completely fine as long as the brick slips are made from concrete etc.

Don’t Forget the Right Adhesive and Grout

Even though the slips themselves can take the heat, what you use to stick them on matters just as much.

• Go for a heat-resistant adhesive, especially if your fireplace gets properly toasty. Look for one that’s rated for high temperatures — over 100°C is a good start.

• The same goes for grout or pointing mortar — make sure it’s suitable for fireplaces or high-temperature areas. Standard indoor stuff might not cut it for brick slips and could crack over time.

Mind the Backing Surface and Heat Clearances

It’s not just about the brick slips — you’ll also want to make sure the wall or board you’re attaching them to can handle a bit of warmth. Brick slips might be non-combustible, but if they’re stuck to a surface that isn’t, you could have problems.

If you’ve got a wood-burning stove, always check how much space is needed between it and the surrounding materials. There are safety guidelines for this, and it’s worth having a chat with a professional installer to get it spot-on.

What About Electric Fires?

Good news — if you’ve got an electric fire, you’re all set. These don’t throw out nearly as much heat, so brick slips are perfectly fine and much easier to work with.

Final Thoughts

Brick slips are a brilliant way to add charm and character to your fireplace. As long as you choose the right materials and install them properly, they’re absolutely safe to use around heat.

If you’re unsure, it’s always worth getting advice from a qualified installer or checking your stove/fireplace manufacturer’s recommendations. Once that’s sorted, you can sit back and enjoy your beautifully updated hearth — mug of tea in hand, of course.