13 Things About Fireplace Surrounds You May Never Have Known

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the space. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

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 up walls that would otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any style from modern to traditional. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned out from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be located some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to add an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace inserts on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you choose to go with a marble fire place it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces wooden. It's also a non-combustible stone, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about 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 fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall feature in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with many design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces wood that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without a mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you're using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll have to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.