Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some ethanol fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create a rustic and warm appearance to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style, but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. 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 a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One disadvantage of the stone fireplaces fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

Your customers can select from a wide array of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace insert place can create a focal point on the wall of the traditional space.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for many centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for ethanol fireplaces that are gas-powered.

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

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative objects like pots or even plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over 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 help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.