Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture as it creates an accent piece for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. wooden fireplaces fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some ethanol fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your home, as it blends with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are highly durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular 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 difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.

Marble

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

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. white fireplace marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. It is also necessary to clean the marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can provide your customers with a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional look.

A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also put in an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or marble fireplace look good). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.