11 Strategies To Completely Defy Your Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.

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

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and Biofireplace include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create a rustic and warm look to your home. It not only blends 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 can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive 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 choose between various shades, patterns, and textures to create an original look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.

A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match to your style.

If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace inserts it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic look.

A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.

Some steel fireplace suite surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.