Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

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

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

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the festive season is over.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

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

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and biofireplace regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.

You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional level of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and fireplaces inexpensive choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for ethanol fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

You can offer your customers an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, gray and white. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items like pots or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.