Wood stove and pellet stove claddings: which one to choose?

Majolica, steel, cast iron, soapstone, refractory brick. These are the stove claddings available on the market.

The different proposals may raise some doubts, especially when comparing price differences. But the real difference is in the aesthetics and the ability to propagate and release heat into the room, an essential property since it allows saving on fuel and enjoying comfortable heat.

In the next paragraphs, we will look at what differentiates the various claddings to help you figure out which cladding is best for your needs.

What are the main differences between various stove claddings?

The differences in stove claddings are both aesthetic and functional. Majolica allows more choice in terms of color and shape. Steel also allows for color variety, while cast iron, soapstone, and refractory bricks come in their natural color, which may vary only a few shades depending on the natural origin of the material.

Looking at the functional side, the cladding of a stove imposes differences in heat propagation, which, however, also depends on other factors: quality of the system, installation, and personal heating needs. The ability to conduct heat is the main difference in stove claddings. The accumulation of heat in the panels and its subsequent gradual release into the room is essential in allowing evenly-distributed heating in all areas of the house, avoiding dispersion, and ensuring prolonged heating even when the stove is off.

The material of claddings is also an important variable in the stove price, since the cladding thermal output, calorific value, and efficiency increase the price, as they ensure better performance in heating the house.

It is clear how claddings not only affect the overall aesthetics of the stove, but can also have an impact on the performance and durability of the appliance.

Let’s look in detail at some general characteristics of each cladding type:

1. Majolica: is a type of glazed ceramic that provides a smooth, glossy surface and is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Majolica heats gradually and retains heat for longer, releasing it effectively into the environment.
2. Steel: is the most common cladding, with a sleek and modern finish, and is often available in different colors. Steel stoves heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly in the room.
3. Cast iron: is valued for its ability to store heat and release it gradually into the room, even after the fire has died down. It is particularly suitable for traditional or rustic settings, but requires more attention to maintenance to avoid rust.
4. Soapstone: offers a natural, sturdy look and is great for storing heat and releasing it gradually. However, it requires more effort in cleaning and maintenance, as porous stone can absorb stains and moisture.

Piazzetta stove claddings

Both Majolica and steel stoves are available in Piazzetta’s wide range.

Majolica is highly appreciated for its craftsmanship, its hand-made production making each stove a unique piece. Thanks to its malleability, it is possible to find stoves with different shapes, ranging from classic to modern style, also embellished with decorations and engravings that make the product artistic. This property also allows making custom surrounds for fireplaces.

Majolica’s properties do not only stop with the production of different shapes, but also with the availability of colors for a surround. In addition to the colors that the company offers as standard for all its products, you can choose from more than 40 shades to customize your own cladding. From the shades of Bianco (Meringa, Antico, Calce, Grigio) to those of Rosso (Lava, Bordeaux), passing through the delicate tones of Sahara, Beige and Kaki to the decisive ones of Ardesia, Marrone Tenné and Nero Opaco, without leaving out innovative colors such as Tè Verde, Anice and Blu Verdemare. A world of colors to choose the best stove to decorate your home. Finally, let us recall the heat storage and release properties of Majolica, a capability that can be even more appreciated if the stove is equipped with storage systems.

Steel is a cladding type that requires different, faster proces sing, but it is also less customizable. Steel panels have a smooth surface and are available in Bianco, Grigio, Rubino, Bordeaux, Nero Opaco e Nero. Compared to Majolica, they heat up faster, consequently radiating heat in less time, but once the flame is extinguished, its cooling is instantaneous, thus not guaranteeing prolonged heat. It is a more cost-effective solution and is mainly suitable for modern styles. For superior quality steel cladding, you can discover the Premium Line and Premium Plus Line stoves in Steel Prime Design: claddings with stylish aesthetic finishes for more elegance, in keeping with the refined design of these product lines.

Design Doors

They are not real claddings, but aesthetic doors are a design element that can elevate the artistic quality of a stove.

In the Piazzetta range, Prestige and Premium Plus pellet stoves feature a design door. In Prestige stoves we can appreciate a design door in glass, a material that gives great brightness to the stove and continuity to its profile. In Premium Plus stoves two types of design doors are available: the Majolica one, for even greater heat diffusion, and the steel one, which allows for a more elegant front view than the technical door.

Wood-burning stoves do not have a real design door, but a large curved glass door that embraces the flame and gives a sensational view of the fire.

What is the best cladding for a stove?

The choice of the cladding for your stove depends on your aesthetic preferences, the style of your home, and the desired heating characteristics. Each type of cladding has its own advantages and maintenance considerations. Before making a decision, it is advisable to compare the available options and evaluate which type of cladding best suits your home and needs.

A well-maintained stove with the right cladding can be an elegant and functional addition to your home.