Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your home, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn’t always straightforward.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it’s a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it provides an accent piece for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is important to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to suit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to give a warm and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. In fact, some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
There are a variety of types of stone that you can use for your fireplace’s surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don’t warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable options 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 is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won’t change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you’re considering a fireplace made of marble you’ll need to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You’ll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don’t want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It’s a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It’s also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it’s important to know that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It’s rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic look.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround, then you’ll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.