You have just installed a gas outdoor fireplace. And now? What to put inside? Two main options dominate: crushed glass and lava rocks. One shines and reflects the flames, the other offers a natural look and retains heat longer.
This guide helps you choose according to your priorities.
Key Points to Remember
- The crushed glass offers a modern look and reflects the flames
- The lava rocks retain heat better
- Glass lasts for decades and requires minimal maintenance
- Lava rock costs less and is suitable for large fireplaces
- Combining both gives the best of both worlds
Why Crushed Glass?
Crushed glass is made from tempered glass that is heat-resistant and safe. It does not melt or discolor.
Choose crushed glass if you are looking for a strong visual effect. Its reflective surface creates a sparkling effect. Ideal for modern patios.
Colors? Black, cobalt blue, amber, turquoise. The choice is abundant.
Maintenance? A simple rinse once per season is enough to restore its shine.
Why Lava Rocks?
Lava rocks? Volcanic in origin, their porous structure absorbs and evenly redistributes heat, even after the flame is out. They are suitable if heat is your priority. Perfect for cool evenings in Quebec.
Another advantage: they protect the internal components of your fireplace.
And regarding budget? Lava costs significantly less than glass. An important point for larger fireplaces.
Comparison According to Your Priorities
| Criterion | Crushed Glass | Lava Rocks |
| Aesthetics | Modern, bright, colorful | Natural, rustic, understated |
| Heat Retention | Average, cools quickly | Excellent, continues after flame out |
| Maintenance | Low, occasional rinsing | Medium, accumulates ashes |
| Durability | Very long, does not degrade | 2 to 4 years depending on use |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using regular glass. Only tempered glass withstands high temperatures. Untreated glass may explode. Wetting lava rocks. Moisture can cause them to crack when heated. Cover your fireplace when it rains. Overloading the fireplace. Too much material blocks gas flow. Maintain 2-3 cm above the burner.
What to Do Now
New fireplace: Start with crushed glass or the hybrid option for an immediate visual effect. Already have lava rocks: Keep them as a base and add glass on top. No need to replace everything. Rocks over 3 years old: Check their condition. Crumbling rocks must be replaced.
Best Practices for Longevity
- Cover your fireplace after use.
- Rinse crushed glass once per season.
- Replace lava rocks every 2 to 4 years.
The Hybrid Option: Best of Both
Why choose? Use lava rocks as a base layer for heat retention, then add crushed glass on top for visual effect. You get the lasting heat of lava AND the modern look of glass. This approach reduces costs while maximizing the benefits of both materials.
Making the Right Choice for Your Space
The choice between crushed glass and lava rocks depends on your priorities. Modern aesthetics? Glass. Lasting heat? Lava. Perfect balance? Both together. Simple. Whatever your decision, a well-stocked outdoor fireplace quickly becomes the heart of your evenings with friends or family. And with the right materials, it will stay beautiful season after season.
Need advice? The team at Stone Decorative can help you determine the right material for your outdoor fireplace.
Contact Us for a personalized recommendation.