Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as an accent piece for the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping 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 types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style, but it can also boost the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your house faster and at more money.

You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

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 choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect 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 don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces are a great addition to open floor designs. They can add style and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the right one that will suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select one that matches 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, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. It is also necessary to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white fireplace swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create a focal point on one wall in the traditional space.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can blend with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional style.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.