Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it provides a focal point for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A wooden fireplaces surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from modern to traditional. There are a range of options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.

The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap fireplaces and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available from several home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with your style of interior design, but it can also boost the value of your home. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high level of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors and textures to create an original look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. marble fireplace fireplaces wood (go directly to Telegra) work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable match for your style.

If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable 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 preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall feature in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be combined with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional style.

A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may take over the room.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.