Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall which might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the festive season is over.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a strong and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your home faster and for an increased price.

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

While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from 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 shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. marble fireplace comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you decide to install a marble fire place it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace suite. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for electric fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative objects like pots or plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may overwhelm the space.

It is essential to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround, you'll need to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can give you advice on this.