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 space. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up walls that could otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for size and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic style to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable 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 is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the right one to match your style.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to 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 another natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces uk. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style 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 a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. It is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items such as pots or even plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.