Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season.When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.
If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.
Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire space can create a focal point on one wall in a traditional room.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites can endure a lot of stress without breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look while others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel that you select will be determined by 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 decorative items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most come with a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.
