Choosing a Fireplace Surround

The perfect surround can add character to your living space regardless of whether you are using it to provide warmth or aesthetics. But choosing the right fireplace surround that is compliant with the requirements of code and is safe could be a difficult task.

Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are constructed using non-combustible material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look great in any home style.

Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs

A fireplace surround is the focal point of rooms, and it can add warmth and charm. It can be made from a variety of materials, and designed to fit different styles of design. It's important to consider the style of the room as well as the budget prior to deciding on the design of a fireplace surround.

Marble fireplace surrounds are an elegant option that can be paired with a broad variety of styles. They can be combined with rustic woods as well as modern metals to create a unique, contemporary design. Marble is fairly easy to maintain and can stand up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for a fireplace surround.

Stone is a classic fireplace insert surround material that has a timeless look and works in many homes. It can be carved and etched to give it a more modern style or left untreated for a more traditional appearance. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option to give texture and depth to a room.

Granite is a very sought-after choice for modern surrounds around fireplaces shop. It is durable and can stand up to heat well. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns which allows you to create various designs. Quartzite is a second option that can be cut and formed to fit into a contemporary fireplace surround.

Installing a concrete enclosure for a fireplace might be a possibility for DIYers. While it may seem daunting but it can be much easier than you think if you prepare and consult with a professional ensure that the structure is sturdy enough.

It's recommended to consult with an expert before making a fireplace surround of marble since it requires special care to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter will help you avoid costly mistakes.

If you intend to use tile for a fireplace surround, make sure it's suitable for high temperatures. You'll typically find this information on the packaging or ask an employee at a home improvement shop.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace's surround can transform a room. It's not only meant to look beautiful, but also serves a practical function, which is to protect the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and also to help reflect heat back into the room. It's available in various materials and can be made to match any style or design.

The right choice of material is crucial for achieving a well-planned aesthetic. Concrete is a good choice because it's highly durable and non-flammable. It also offers a lot of visual appeal with its natural texture and color. It's typically put into a stible substances or to enhance the appearance of a fireplace.

The fireplace in this modern living space has the black firebox surround, with white fireplace marble accents. The marble fireplaces is more expensive and requires more care than wood, however it provides a striking design element to the space. The black finish also blends to the dark hues of the furniture and wood flooring to create a seamless appearance.

While you might think of concrete as sidewalks or driveways, white fireplace it's a very flexible and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be cut into custom shapes and then poured into place, providing nearly limitless design possibilities. This concrete surround was cut into a curved shape. It gives a sleek and modern look that contrasts with the darker shades of the brick wall and flooring.

Wood is another popular choice for fireplace surrounds. It comes in a variety of textures and colors that will match any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are lighter and more economical than brick surrounds and can be made to match the color of your existing hearth pad. Most wooden surrounds can accommodate decorative items for the mantel, including vases and lamps.

Some wood surrounds come with a faceplate that is placed on mantel's top and houses the fireplace doors. The faceplate can be secured with hinges that are decorative or fasteners that mimic the look of iron wrought.

It is important to consider the dimensions of your fireplace when choosing a wood mantel. To avoid a fire spreading into your home, building codes stipulate minimum clearances. The distance will vary based on what type of fireplace you have and also from state to state or country country.

Simple Wood Surround

If you'd like your fireplace to have a traditional wood look, there are different types of surrounds that you can purchase. Certain surrounds are constructed of solid oak, while others include stone legs with pine or oak mantels. You can also choose from oak or pine fire surrounds which are designed to be a cost-effective and easy choice.

A lot of people opt to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround since it's an affordable way to achieve the style they desire without the expense of the services of a carpenter. Some pre-made surrounds made of pine are available with a variety of finishes that allow you to match them to your existing decor.

Another kind of fire surround made of wood is one that has been handcrafted using a top quality oak. It can be stained to a light oak color or left untreated to allow the natural golden brown of the wood to show through. This fireplace surround is ideal for wood or gas-burning fires and can be fitted either with an arched or flat opening.

There are many tutorials available online for those with more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can help you build your own fireplace surround from wood. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to create a rustic inspired wood surround using pine.

The tutorial shows you how to build first the horizontal pilasters before building the vertical pilasters which support the mantel. Once these are completed then you can build the mantel itself. The guide will show you how to put up the crown molding, which will cover any gaps between the cladding of the wall and the wall surrounding it.

Since a fireplace surround made of wood is constructed from combustible material, it is important that you adhere to the local fire code and keep it at least 6 inches away from the edge of the chimney opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround, and ensure that it is held in the correct position.