10 Websites To Help You Learn To Be An Expert In Fireplace Surround
Choosing a Fireplace Surround
If you are using ethanol fireplaces for aesthetics or warmth, the perfect surround can make your living space more unique. It isn't easy to select a fireplace surround that is safe and complies with the code.
Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are made with non-combustible materials that adhere to the National Fire Code. They look great in any home style.
Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble
A fireplace surround can be a focal point in a room and it can provide warmth and a sense of style. It can be made from a variety of materials, and designed to fit various styles of design. It is essential to consider the style of the room and the budget before deciding on the design of a fireplace surround.
Marble fireplace surrounds offer a sophisticated appearance that can be paired with various styles of design. They can be combined with rustic woods and modern metals to create an unique, contemporary look. Marble is relatively simple to maintain and is able to withstand high temperatures, which makes it a perfect material for a fireplace surround.
Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless appeal and works in many homes. It can be carved or etched for an updated look or left unfinished to give it a traditional look. Stacked Stone fireplaces veneers are a popular option that can be used to give texture and depth to the interior of a room.
Granite is a very sought-after option for modern surrounds around ethanol fireplaces. It is durable and can withstand heat well. It's also available in a variety of patterns and colors so it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can be made into a shape and molded to fit a modern surround.
If you're a DIYer making a fireplace surround made of concrete might be within your capabilities. This task may seem daunting however it's more simple than you imagine working with an expert and plan ahead.
A professional is also recommended when making a fireplace surround made of marble, as it requires special attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter can help avoid making mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.
If you're planning to use tile for your fireplace insert's surround, make sure it's approved for high-temperature use. This information is usually found on the package or ask a staff member at the home improvement store.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround is a crucial design element that can transform the entire room. It's not only visually pleasing but it also serves a functional purpose. It shields the wall surrounding the fire place from damage and also reflects heat back into the room. It's available in various materials and can be made to match any style or design.
The right material to use for the frame's leaning surround is key to creating an intentional design. Concrete is a good choice because it's highly durable and non-flammable. It also offers lots of visual appeal with its natural texture and color. It is typically poured in molds that allow you to choose the option of creating unique shapes.
When you design your leaning frame, be sure to add in layers. This helps the piece look deliberate and thoughtful instead of being randomly placed on the wall or shelf. Leaning frames can be risky and should be avoided if you plan to display heavier objects such as vases or lamps, place a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to prevent them from falling or causing damage to surfaces.
If you're using a concrete or marble surround, think about adding an oak board at the bottom to hold it in the right place. It will also help in reducing the weight of the object and prevent it from moving while you sip a refreshing glass of wine or a cup of coffee on your mantel.
Once you've decided on the material for the frame's leaning surround, it's time to start constructing the actual piece. Begin by marking the wall you're building with the dimensions of your frame and then use a saw to cut cleats on each of these marks. Ensure that the top cleat is at least a foot longer than the shelf.
Attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted through the backerboard and into the stud. If needed, drill the screw holes. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Fix the mantel to studs using the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure that the bolts are strong and long enough to cover the full thickness of the backerboard, plus 2/3 of the mantel's depth.
Black Firebox Surround
Fireplace surrounds serve an aesthetic and functional function. They protect walls from damage caused by heat and also help to redirect some of the heat back into the room and can make a fireplace more of a focal point in a space. Metal and wood are the most commonly used materials used to construct fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds are required by the building code in order to guard against nearby combustible substances or to enhance the look of a fireplace.
The fireplace in this modern living area has an all-black firebox with white marble accents. The stone is a more expensive material that requires more maintenance than a wooden mantel but it adds a dramatic and striking design element to the room. The black finish also brings together the dark tones of the wood flooring and furniture to create an overall design.
While you may think of concrete as a material for sidewalks and driveways, it's a very flexible and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be poured into place and formed into any shape, giving the user a variety of design options. The concrete surround was formed into a curved shape. It has a sleek and modern look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall and wood floor.
Wood is another popular material used for fireplace surrounds. It is available in a variety of textures and colors that will complement any decor. Wooden surrounds are lighter and more affordable than brick surrounds and can be finished to match the color of your existing hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate decorative items for the mantel, such as lamps and vase.
Certain wood surrounds have a faceplate that covers the top of the mantel and houses the doors to the fireplace. This plate can be attached to the mantel using hinges or decorative fasteners that resemble the look of iron.
When choosing a wood mantel or metal fireplace surround, it is important to think about the height of your chimney. Building codes stipulate minimum clearance distances that prevent the spread of fire into the home. This distance will vary based on the type of fireplace used and may also vary from country to country or from state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
If you'd like your fireplace to have a classic wood look, there are many different types of surrounds that can be purchased. Some surrounds are completely solid oak, while others use various materials like stone legs, paired with mantels made of oak or pine. You can also pick from oak or pine fire surrounds, which are designed to be a cost-effective and easy option.
Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround because it is an inexpensive method of getting the look that they want without the expense of the services of a carpenter. Some of the pre-made pine fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of finishes so that you can blend it with your existing decor.
Another popular style of wood fire surround is one that is hand-crafted using a top quality oak. This can be stained in a light oak colour or left untreated to allow the natural golden brown of the wood to show through. This fireplace surround is suitable for wood or gas-burning fires and is available either with a flat or arched opening.
There are a lot of tutorials available online for those with more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can assist you in making your own wooden fireplace surround. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to make an authentic wood surround from pine.
The tutorial will show you how to build the horizontal part of the fireplace surround first, and then how to construct the columns or pilasters vertically that support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are completed you can put up your mantel. Finally, the tutorial will show you how to install the crown molding which will fill in any gaps between the cladding and surrounding wall.
It is important to follow the local fire code when installing a wooden surround around the fireplace. You should keep the surround 6 inches away from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround and ensure it stays in the correct position.