Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the room. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.

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

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up the wall that could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These are available from several DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends into your style of interior design but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home faster and for more money.

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

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.

One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.

If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles such as the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. But, you must test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire place can create a focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

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

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative objects like vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can give you advice on this.