Choosing a Fireplace Surround

The right surround can add personality to your living space regardless of whether you are using it for warmth or to enhance your aesthetics. However, selecting the right fireplace surround that is compliant with standards and is safe can be a difficult task.

Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are constructed using non-combustible material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any style of home.

Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs

A fireplace surround can be a focal point in a room and it can bring warmth and elegance. It is made of various materials and designed to suit different styles of design. When choosing a fireplace style it is essential to think about the design and budget of the space.

Marble fireplace surrounds provide a sophisticated appearance that can be paired with various styles of design. They can be combined with rustic woods and modern metals to create an distinctive, modern design. Marble is relatively simple to maintain and can withstand high temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplace surrounds.

Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless appeal and works in many homes. It can be carved and etched to give it a more contemporary style or left untreated for a more traditional appearance. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option that can be used to give depth and texture to rooms.

Granite is a popular choice for modern fireplace surrounds because it's strong and resistant to heat extremely well. It comes in a variety of designs and colors, which allows you to create various designs. Quartzite is a second option that can be cut and formed to fit into a contemporary fireplace surround.

The installation of a concrete surround for a fireplace may be possible for DIYers. While it may seem daunting however, it could be easier than you might think if you prepare and collaborate with a professional to make sure the structure is sturdy enough.

A professional is also recommended when creating a marble fireplace surround because it requires particular attention to avoid damage. A carpenter who has experience will help you avoid costly mistakes.

If you're planning to use tile for your fireplace's surround, make sure it's rated for high-temperature applications. You'll find this information on the packaging, or inquire with an employee at a local home improvement store.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace's surround can transform a room. It's not just designed to look beautiful, but also serves a practical function, which is to protect the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and deflect heat away from the room. It comes in a variety materials and can be adapted for any style or decor.

Choosing the right material for a leaning frame surround is key to creating an aesthetic that is purposeful. Concrete is a great choice because it's highly durable and non-flammable. It also has an appealing visual appeal with its natural texture and color. It is usually poured in molds that allow you to choose the possibility of making a unique shape.

When you design your leaning frame, be sure to add layers. This makes the frame appear more curated than if it were just randomly placed. If you plan to display heavy objects like vases or lamps on leaning frames, place a piece of lining for drawers made of rubber underneath the base. This will prevent them from sliding or damaging surfaces.

Consider adding a wooden board to the bottom of a concrete or marble surround. This will help keep it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and prevent the object from shifting while you enjoy a cup of wine or coffee in the fireplace.

Once you have decided on the material, it's time to construct the piece. First, mark the new wall with the dimensions of your frame and then use a saw to cut cleats on each of these marks. Make sure that the cleat on top is at least one foot longer than the shelf.

Then, attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted into the backerboard and into the stud. If needed, drill the screw holes. Then put the mantel in a clamp that is temporarily on the backer board. Screw the mantel to the studs with lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Be sure that the bolts are long enough to cover 2/3 of the mantel depth + the thickness of the backer board.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve a practical and decorative function. They protect walls from heat damage and also help to redirect some of the heat back into the room and can create a fireplace that is a focal point in a space. Metal and wood are the most popular materials used for fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds can be required by building codes to guard nearby combustible surfaces or they may simply improve the appearance of a fireplace to make it look complete.

The fireplace in this contemporary living area has a black firebox surround with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more maintenance than wood, yet it adds an eye-catching design feature to the space. The black finish also ties to the dark hues of the furniture and wood flooring to create a seamless appearance.

Concrete isn't just for driveways and sidewalks. It's also a beautiful and versatile material that can be used to cover fireplaces electric. It can be cut into custom shapes and poured in place, giving almost endless design options. This concrete surround has been designed into a curved shape, creating an elegant, modern look that contrasts with the darker hues of the brick floor and wood wall.

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wood, which is available in a wide range of colors and textures to complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds can be finished in any shade to match your hearth pad. They are lighter and more affordable than masonry surrounds. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to hold household decorations above the mantel, like lamps and vases.

Some wood surrounds have an edging that covers the top of the mantel and houses fireplace doors. This plate can be hung with decorative fasteners or hinges that mimic the look of iron.

When selecting a wood mantel or a fireplace surround made of metal, it is important to consider the height of your chimney. To prevent a fire spreading into your home, building codes require minimum clearances. The distance will vary based on the type of fireplace you have and also from state to state or country to country.

Simple Wood Surround

There are many options for surrounds if you want to give your fireplace a traditional style. Some surrounds are made of solid oak while others are various materials like stone legs, paired with mantels made of oak or pine. You can also find oak or pine fire surrounds that are designed to be a simple and affordable alternative.

Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround because it is an inexpensive way to get the style they desire without the expense of the services of carpenters. Some of the premade wood surrounds are available in a variety finishes and colors, allowing you to blend them into your existing decor.

Another popular style of wood fire surround is one that is hand-crafted from high-quality oak. It can be stained to in a light oak hue or left untreated to ensure that the natural golden brown of the wood shows through. This fireplace surround is ideal for gas or wood burning fireplaces and can be installed either with a flat or arched opening.

For those who have more experience in DIY home improvement projects, there are a lot of tutorials available online to help you to make your own wooden fireplaces fire surround. This comprehensive step-bystep guide from H2O Bungalow shows you how to create an attractive wood surround with pine.

The tutorial teaches you how to build first the horizontal component and then the vertical pilasters which support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are finished then you can place your mantel. Then, the guide will show you how to install the crown molding which will cover up any gaps between the cladding and the surrounding wall.

It is crucial to adhere to the local fire code when putting in a wooden surround around a fireplace. It is recommended to keep the surround at least 6 inches from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue join the decorative molding to the surround and ensure it stays in place.