Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround 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 a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a dense solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood fireplaces are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from several DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is important to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home faster and for an increased price.

There are many kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match for your style.

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

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a great option for fireplaces wooden. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall fires in an old-fashioned room.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand 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 clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to the room. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your space.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the freestanding fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.