Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have electric fire or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit 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 wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a strong and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

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

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. Not only does it 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 help you sell your home faster and for an increased price.

There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are highly durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

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

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the right one to fit your style.

If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements in the room. White marble fireplaces is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

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

Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas tabletop fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall accent in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic style.

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

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This option is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is essential to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you're using a combustible product for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.