Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set away from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by the clearance for ethonal fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home more quickly and at an increased price.

There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can choose between a variety of shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone fireplaces, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces electric. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match to your style.

If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, you should test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on one wall in a traditional room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is essential to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can help you on this.