Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it provides a focal point to the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the festive season is over.

It is crucial to match the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set 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 of wood is oak, and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a dense solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior design but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.

You can pick from a variety of stones for your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various colors, patterns, and textures to create an original look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for Fireplaces fireplaces example is one of 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.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap 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 problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink as the fireplace electric gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous 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 a natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create the perfect focal point for one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is available in a range of colors, including light browns and Marble fireplace creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for Marble fireplace any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install a surround only, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.

It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.