Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, biofireplace and include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.

When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to create an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your house faster and at more money.

You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will create a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could result in an hazard to fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble you should pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be used to assist with drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.