Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric firesuite fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture since it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to suit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.

You can pick from a wide range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are highly durable and last for many years 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 beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.

If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of 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 swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces wood. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your customers want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

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

A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish while others are rougher to bring more contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but most have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without the mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.