Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the room. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern fireplace. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is crucial to remember that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great way to give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are highly durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one that will suit your taste.

If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the electric fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall accent in a traditional living space.

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

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

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very 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 beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items like vase or even plants. The style of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

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

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 is not beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide suggestions on this.