Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular 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 that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add a rustic and warm appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with the style of your interior, but it can also boost the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home faster and for a higher price.

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

While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides a high level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace electric's surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback of a stone ethanol fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it doesn't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer 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 frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces wooden. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can select from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look while others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may take over the room.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can provide suggestions on this.