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 a wood-burning or electric fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic fireplaces- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks the wall that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the festive season is over.

It is crucial to match the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.

You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from different patterns, colors and textures to create a unique design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and 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 essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor designs. They add class and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the different zones.

Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.

If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and fireplace Maintenance Tips more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the structure.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style 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 focal point in a traditional living room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with various styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite looks beautiful next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace Maintenance tips surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer advice on this.