Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point for the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with your style of interior design but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.

There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing 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 become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you choose to install an open ethanol fireplace made of marble you should pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace stove. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. It is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to help with drafting issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for cheap fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Some fireplace stove surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.