Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes 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 surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood fireplaces are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends in with the style of your interior and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for a higher price.

You can choose from a variety of stones for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are highly durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind 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 stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other elements of design in the room. white fireplace 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 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 if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. It is also important to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaners available. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any freestanding fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional style.

A metal surround may also be used to aid in draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative objects like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you're using a combustible material as your surround then you will need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can help you on this.