Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match your interior style is not always easy.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

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

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great way to add a warm and rustic style to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.

There are a variety of types of stone that you can use for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from different colors, patterns and textures to create an original look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. marble fireplaces (Ongoing) work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps 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 certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

If you're considering a fireplace made of marble it is important to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined 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, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean 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 natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is available 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 not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.

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

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.