Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, 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 fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available from several DIY and home stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. Indeed, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.

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

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between different colors, patterns and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A fireplace suite surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to wipe it down 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 hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces electric. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes 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 resistant against heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key aspect 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 appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to assist with draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend further than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the 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 help you on this.