13 Things About Fireplace Surrounds You May Not Have Considered

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates an accent piece for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

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

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers like Pureglow.

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

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It's not just a way to 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 aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.

There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of beauty and durability that is worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could result in an hazard to fire or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces shop work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

If you're considering a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, Modern Fireplace like the ones featured in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the surrounding area of the ethanol fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white 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 a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. It is available in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks stunning in a tabletop fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a classic style.

A metal surround may also be used to help with problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative objects like vase or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is essential to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.