Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit challenging.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is to the wall flush, 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 of wood is oak, which is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong 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 guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect 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 are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, modern Fireplace is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The beautiful 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 are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the right one to fit your style.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, you should test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any freestanding fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall fireplace accent in a traditional living area.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with many styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to last for a long time.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic appearance.

A metal surround can be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as vase or even plants. The style of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will 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 isn't safe nor look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.