20 Trailblazers Setting The Standard In Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.

Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.

Wood

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

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety 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 popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also sold by online retailers like Pureglow.

It is crucial to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your home area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it blends with your interior design but also matches it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.

There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can pick from different shades, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can even choose to have your tabletop fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful addition to open floor plans. They add class and sophistication while bringing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you choose to install a marble fire place, you will want to select a color that compliments the other elements of design 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 an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone fireplaces that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.

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

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to help with draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.