Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that matches your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set away from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. 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 shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be located a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are highly durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from various patterns, colors, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also choose to have your tabletop fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. stone fireplaces surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are a great addition to open floor plans. 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 shrink 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 bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it 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 cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden 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 instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. It comes in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by 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 protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace stove can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces wood.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also put in the surround alone, without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.