Choosing a Fireplace Surround

Whether you use a fireplace for warmth or aesthetics, the best surround will make your living space more unique. However, selecting the right fireplace surround that is compliant with code and is safe can be a daunting task.

Fortunately, these custom surrounds are made with non-combustible materials and adhere to the National Fire Code. They look stunning in any style of home.

Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble

A fireplace surround can be a focal point for rooms, and it can bring warmth and charm. It is made of many different materials and crafted to match a variety of design styles. It's important to consider the design of the room as well as the budget prior to deciding on the design of a fireplace surround.

Marble fireplace surrounds give a sophisticated appearance that can be paired with many different styles of design. They can be paired with rustic woods and modern metals to create a unique, contemporary look. Marble is easy to maintain and it can withstand high temperature making it an ideal option for a surround.

Stone is an elegant fireplace surround material that has a timeless appeal and works in many homes. It can be carved or etched to create a modern look or left unfinished to give it a traditional feel. Stacked stone veneers may also be used to add texture and depth to a room.

Granite is a very sought-after option for modern surrounds around fireplaces. It's durable and can stand up to heat well. It's also available in a variety of colors and patterns, so it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite is a second option that can be shaped and made into a modern fireplace surround.

Installing a concrete enclosure for a fireplace could be feasible for DIYers. Although it may seem difficult but it can be simpler than you imagine if you plan ahead and consult with a professional make sure the structure is sturdy enough.

A professional is also recommended when creating a marble fireplace surround because it requires particular attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter can help avoid mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you are planning to use tile as a fireplace surround, make sure it's rated for high temperatures. This information is usually located on the label or you can ask a staff member at the home improvement store.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace's surround can transform the look of a room. It's not just meant to look beautiful, but also serves a practical function, which is to protect the wall behind the fireplace from damage caused by fire and also to help reflect heat away from the room. It's available in various materials and can be made to fit any style or decor.

Choosing the right material for a leaning frame surround is crucial to create an aesthetic that is purposeful. Concrete is a great choice because it is strong and non-flammable. It also has a lot of visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It's typically placed into a mold giving you the opportunity to create a unique shape for your fireplace surround.

Layers are essential when creating your leaning frames. This helps the piece look deliberate and thoughtful rather than being thrown randomly on the shelf or wall. Leaning frames can be dangerous If you're planning on displaying heavier objects like vases or lamps, place a small piece of drawer liner made of rubber under the base to prevent them from slipping or damaging surfaces.

If you're using a marble or concrete surround, think about adding a wooden board on the bottom to help keep it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and keep the item from moving while you sip a glass of coffee or wine in the fireplace.

Once you have decided on the material, it's time to construct the actual piece. Draw a line on the wall to indicate the dimensions for your surround. Then using a saw cut cleats at each line. Make sure that the top cleat of the shelf is at least one foot shorter.

Fix the brackets to the wall. Make sure the bolts are inserted through the backer board and into a wall stud. If necessary, pre-drill the screw holes. Then you can temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Screw the mantel with the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure the bolts are long and strong enough to cover the thickness of the backerboard plus 2/3 of the depth of the mantel.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve both an aesthetic and functional function. They protect walls against damage from heat and also reflect heat into the room, and can make a fire more of the focal point of a space. Metal and wood are the most popular materials used for fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds may be required by building codes to safeguard nearby combustible surfaces or they may simply improve the appearance of a fireplace, making it look more attractive.

This fireplace is modern living room that has an all-black surround and white marble accents. The stone is a higher-end material that requires more attention than a wooden mantel, but it provides a dramatic and striking design element to the room. The black finish also brings together the dark tones in the furniture and wood flooring for an attractive design.

Concrete is not just for sidewalks and driveways. It's also a versatile and attractive material that can be used to enclose fireplaces. It can be shaped into custom shapes and poured in place, allowing for almost endless designs. This concrete surround was cut to create a curved design. It has a sleek and modern look that contrasts the darker shades of the brick wall and wood flooring.

Wood is another popular choice for fireplace surrounds. It comes in a variety of textures and colors that will complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are lighter and more economical than brick surrounds and can be finished to match the color of your current hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds can accommodate decorative items for the mantel, including vases and lamps.

Some wood surrounds have an edging that covers the top of the mantel and houses the fireplace doors. This plate can be attached to the mantel with hinges or decorative fasteners that mimic the look of iron.

When choosing a wood mantel or a wall-mounted fireplace (read here) surround made of metal It is crucial to think about the height of your chimney. To avoid a fire spreading into your home, building codes specify minimum clearances. This distance will vary based on the type of fireplace and can also change from country to country or state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

If you want your fireplace to have a classic wood look, there are many kinds of surrounds available for purchase. Certain surrounds are constructed of solid oak, while others incorporate stone legs with oak or pine mantels. You can also choose from oak or pine fire surrounds that are designed to be an affordable and easy choice.

Many people choose to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround since it's a cost-effective way to achieve the look they desire without having to hire a carpenter. Some of the pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are even available in a variety of finishes so that you can blend it with your existing decor.

Another style of wood fire surround is one that is hand-crafted from a high quality oak. This can be stained in a light oak color or left untreated to allow the natural golden brown of the wood to shine through. This fireplace surround is suitable for gas or wood fires. It is available in two different styles: flat or arched.

There are many tutorials available online for those with more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can assist you in making your own fireplace surround made of wood. One example is this complete step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow which teaches you how to make a rustic inspired wood surround from pine.

The tutorial teaches how to construct the horizontal component before building the vertical pilasters that support the mantel. Once these are completed, you can install the mantel itself. The tutorial will show you how to put up the crown molding, which will fill in any gaps between the wall mounted fireplace's cladding and the surrounding wall.

Because a fireplace surround made of wood is made of combustible materials it is crucial that you adhere to the fire codes of your area and keep it 6 inches from the edge of the chimney opening. It is also essential to use a non-flammable glue to join the decorative molding, and to ensure that it remains in place after the surround is set.