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 style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

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

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it blends with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for more money.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that is worth the cost. You can pick from different colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can 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 luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the perfect option to match your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design 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 fire place can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in a traditional room.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for 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 pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.