Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the room. But choosing a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight 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 in the room and breaks a wall which might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to match any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It not only blends into the style of your interior but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your house faster and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, marble fireplaces including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. marble fireplaces wood (why not try these out) work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp as the ethanol fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the perfect option to match your style.

If you're considering a fireplace made of marble you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural 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 high temperatures, making it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and Marble fireplaces harm the structure.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall fires accent in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten 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 key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic style.

A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not 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 have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.