Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture as it provides a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add an inviting and rustic style to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it blends with your interior style but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between various patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique design for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces near me. They can withstand high temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage 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. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more 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 regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the structure.

Your customers can select from a wide array of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place 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 out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as pots or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary but the majority of them 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 option is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend further 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 need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.