Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fireplaces or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn't always straightforward.

Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that would otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for dimensions and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from a number of home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your style of interior design and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.

There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your ethanol fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or ethanol fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.

If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble you should pick a color that is in harmony with the other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can blend with various designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.

Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making 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 breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces wooden.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and fireplaces Wood finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.

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

You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.