Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the space. But finding a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

It is crucial to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to match any style from modern to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This 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 with a stone surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace electric's surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between different colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

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

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can provide your customers with a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of a traditional room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with various designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles 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 can be used to assist with draft issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel tabletop fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to add contrast to a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.

It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.