Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It’s also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

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

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace’s surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace’s surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won’t shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

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 could become a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety 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 best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you’re sure to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you’re going with a marble fireplace, you’ll want to choose a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found 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 extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you’re not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It’s a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It’s also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

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

Granite is a solid rock that’s formed by magma. It naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It’s rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have selected for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance 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’re planning to install an ignitable surround, you’ll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.