Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room, whether you have electric fire or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor from modern to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.

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

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it blends with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.

There are many kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of shades, patterns and textures to create an original design for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces wooden. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern fireplace. Marble fireplaces are great for 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 shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you decide to go with a marble fire place it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to install a freestanding fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

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

You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire area can create a focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

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

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider 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 a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for many centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to house decorative objects like pots or even plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.