Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood fireplace burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture since it creates a focal point to the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is important to match the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong thick 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 guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great way to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It's not just a way to blend into the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at more money.

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

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between different shades, patterns and textures to create an original look for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not sure about 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 create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the ethanol fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.

Your customers can select from a wide array of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living area.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

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

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround can be used to aid in draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces electric that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

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

You can also put in a surround only, without the mantel. This option is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.