Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up the wall that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. 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.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers like Pureglow.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend into your style of interior design but it can also improve the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can choose between various colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the perfect option to match your style.

If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can 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 a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and Marble Fireplaces staining.

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

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven 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 longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic appearance.

A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces wood that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others are rougher to create a contrast in the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might take over the room.

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