Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the room. Finding a fireplace inserts surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hold garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the festive season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select 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 contemporary. There are a variety of options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned away from it.

The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from several DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to create a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.

One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could result in an hazard to ethonal fire or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern fireplace to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect option to match your style.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements 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, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. 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 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to help with drafting issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to store decorative items such as vases or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

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

It is essential to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.