Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it provides an accent piece for the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is important to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on codes and regulations for your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home since it not only blends in with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. 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, however it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create an original design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful addition to open floor plans. They can add style and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the perfect option to match your style.

If you decide to install a marble fire place, you will want to select a color that compliments the other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired 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 casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also important to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall mounted fireplace focal point in a traditional living area.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional look.

A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to an area. The type of steel you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a large surround may overwhelm 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 safe from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can provide suggestions on this.