Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have electric fireplace or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of options for size and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned out from it.

The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined by electric fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it blends with your style, but also complements it. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.

You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are highly durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites can endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures last for many 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 can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative objects like vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your freestanding fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). 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.