Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fires or ethanol Fireplaces wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. 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, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.

There are many kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're considering an elegant fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace stove that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a classic appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, fireplaces which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher surface to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you choose will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items like vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might take over the room.

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 extends no further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.