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 really make the space. But finding a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a great option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace inspiration surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up the wall that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is important to remember that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.

You can pick from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or Decorative fireplaces warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, wall-mounted fireplaces scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. It is crucial to keep your Fireplace Safety clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant fireplaces material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're considering an elegant fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients 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 an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a traditional style.

A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material as your surround then you will need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can give you suggestions on this.