Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, 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 popular option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that could otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to match any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall fires. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it blends with your interior design but also complements 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 choose from a wide range 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 minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can choose between various patterns, colors, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. stone fireplaces surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

marble fireplaces is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It is available in a variety of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for 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 combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The type of steel that you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.