Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the room. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

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

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher price.

There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are highly durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investMarble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces electric. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall fires focal point in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite is 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 is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.

Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.