9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric fireplace or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it provides a focal point to the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is impervious 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.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it blends with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at more money.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or warp when the fireplace stove heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace [more info here] be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market to use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone fireplaces, which helps keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can offer your clients an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall accent in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The type of steel that you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items such as vase or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.