Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. The right surround to match your style of interior isn’t always straightforward.

Brick can be utilized in 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 fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a myriad of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a strong solid wood fireplaces that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This 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 is a fantastic way to create an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it blends with your style, but also complements it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are many types of stone that you can use for your fireplace’s surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can choose between various shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren’t warped or cracked when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped as the ethonal fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match to your style.

If you’re planning to install a marble fireplace electric it is important to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you’re not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It’s a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It’s also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with many designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a classic appearance.

A metal surround can be used to aid in draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn’t extend past the front of the hearth (which isn’t safe nor look attractive). If you’re using a combustible product for your surround, then you’ll need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.