24 Hours To Improving Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fireplaces or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.

Wood

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

It is essential to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with your interior design style, but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.

You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include 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.

Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can pick from different patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood ethanol fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

One drawback of a 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 on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

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 classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to 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 create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall feature in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to help with drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

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

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may be too large for the space.

It is crucial to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.