Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. But finding a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great choice for modern fireplace, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to suit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a dense solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

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

You can pick from a variety of stones for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning ethanol fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. 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.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and 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 which could cause an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for electric fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create the perfect focal point for the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples 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 that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional style.

A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces wood that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various 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 space. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.