Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break 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 difficult.

Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood fireplaces is an essential piece of furniture because it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available from several DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by ethanol fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give a warm and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.

There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.

If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma, so it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth, and is 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 your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.