Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the space. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It not only blends in with your interior design style but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can pick 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 little maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that is worth the cost. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to 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 and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround 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. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with many styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The type of steel that you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative objects like vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer advice on this.
