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 room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick is one option that is a good fit for 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 fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. wooden fireplaces surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned away from it.

The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. 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 shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers like Pureglow.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is based on bioethanol fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to create a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it blends with your style, but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.

You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various shades, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Like other materials, marble fireplace is impervious to heat, so it will not change color or shrink 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 range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match for your style.

If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the surface.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. 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 can be used to help with problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.

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

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. 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 planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.