Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning ethanol fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. But finding a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is important 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 variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many choices for design and size. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it blends with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace's 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 usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into 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 a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern fireplace gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace inserts that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites can endure a lot of stress without breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to help with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or even plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace suite opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.