Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a variety of options for dimensions and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned out from it.

The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

It is essential to keep in mind 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 requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to create a rustic and warm style to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it blends with your style, but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher 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 last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the cost. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a popular and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are an excellent option for open floor designs. They can add style and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the various zones.

Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.

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

If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous 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 as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

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

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into various design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to know 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 that has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and White Fireplace. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

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

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over 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 does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.