Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your freestanding fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in modern, 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 an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like 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. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it blends with your interior style but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between various patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning cheap fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don’t crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it’s easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn’t change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the ethonal fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you’re going with an elegant fireplace, you’ll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. You’ll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don’t want commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It’s a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It’s also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It’s rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for many centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to help with problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.

It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you’ll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.