Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture since it provides an accent piece for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is essential 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 fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace suite surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your home because it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your house faster and at more money.

There are a variety of types of stone that you can use for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are highly durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can choose between different colors, patterns and textures to create a unique design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles like the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy 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 clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, Marble Fireplace you should test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It comes in a variety of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. 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 an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.