Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric fire or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.

Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up walls that could otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace suite surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of options for size and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned away from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to give an inviting and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior, but it can also boost the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home more quickly 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 durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.

One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas tabletop fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be combined with various designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so 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. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very 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 is also 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 run on gas.

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

Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The style of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround, then you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.