Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric fires or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit challenging.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size 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 kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is recognized as beautiful and durable. 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, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to give a warm and rustic style to your home. It not only blends in with your style of interior design and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.

You can choose from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

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. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace suite into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. marble fireplaces (use Etd) work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, Fireplace insert which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you choose to install a marble fire place, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. white fireplace marble looks great 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 look great with earth tones and softer styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white fireplace swirls that be a perfect match for 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 fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the space. The type of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide guidance on this.