Choosing a Fireplace Surround

If you are using fireplaces for aesthetics or warmth, choosing the perfect surround can give your living space a unique. It isn't easy to select a fireplace surround which is safe and complies with the code.

These custom-built surrounds are made from non-combustible material that adheres to the National Fire Code. They look stunning in any home style.

Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs

A fireplace surround can be a focal point of an area and it can provide warmth and a sense of style. It is made of various materials and designed to fit various styles of design. When choosing a fireplace style, it's important that you take into consideration the design and budget of the space.

Marble fireplace surrounds offer an elegant look that is compatible with a variety of design styles. They can be paired with rustic woods and more modern metals to create a distinctive, modern design. Marble is fairly easy to maintain and can stand up to high temperatures, making it a perfect material for fireplace surrounds.

Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless look and can be used in a variety of homes. It can be carved or etched to create a modern look, or left untouched to give it a classic appearance. Stacked stone veneers may also be used to add depth and texture to rooms.

Granite is a very sought-after option for modern surrounds around fireplaces. It is durable and can withstand heat well. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns which allows you to create various designs. Quartzite can also be formed and shaped to match the modern design of a surround.

If you're a DIYer the installation of a concrete fireplace surround could be within your capabilities. This project may seem daunting however it's more simple than you imagine when you collaborate with a professional and plan ahead.

A professional is also recommended when building a marble fireplace surround because it requires particular attention to avoid damage. A carpenter with experience can help you to avoid costly errors.

If you're planning on using tile for your fireplace's surround, ensure it's suitable for high-temperature uses. This information is typically found on the packaging or you can inquire with an employee at a home improvement shop.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace's surround can transform the look of a room. It is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a practical purpose. It shields the wall that surrounds the fire place from damage and also reflects heat back into the space. It is available in a variety of materials and is customizable for any style or decor.

Choosing the right material for the frame's leaning surround is essential to achieve an aesthetic that is purposeful. Concrete is a good option because it's extremely durable and non-flammable. It also offers lots of visual appeal thanks to its natural texture and color. It's usually put into a mold, giving you the ability to create a unique shape for your fireplace surround.

When designing your leaning frame, make sure to add in layers. This makes the frame appear more organized as opposed to being randomly placed. Leaning frames can be dangerous If you're planning to display heavy objects, such as lamps or vases, put a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to keep them from sliding or damaging surfaces.

If you're using a marble or concrete surround, consider adding wooden boards on the bottom to hold it in place. It will also lessen the weight and stop the item from moving while you sip a glass of wine or coffee in front of your fireplace.

After you've selected the material for the frame's leaning surround, it's time to start making the actual piece. Draw a line on the wall to indicate the dimensions of your frame. Then with a saw, cut cleats along each line. Make sure that the cleat on top is at least 1 foot longer than the shelf.

Screw the brackets on the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted through the backerboard and into the stud. If necessary, pre-drill the screw holes. Then put the mantel in a clamp that is temporarily on the backer board. Attach the mantel to the studs using the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure that the bolts are strong and long enough to cover the full thickness of the backerboard, plus 2/3 of the mantel's depth.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds play a functional and decorative role. They protect walls from heat damage and help deflect some heat back into the room and can make a fireplace an attraction in a room. The most popular materials used for fireplace surrounds are wood and metal. Metal surrounds are required by building code to protect nearby combustible materials or to enhance the aesthetics of a fireplace.

The fireplace in this modern living space features the black firebox surround, with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, but it adds an eye-catching design aspect to the room. The black finish also ties with the dark tones of the furniture and wood flooring to create a cohesive appearance.

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

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wood, that is available in a wide range of colors and textures to complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds can come in any shade to complement your hearth pad. They are lighter and less expensive than brick surrounds. Most wooden surrounds can accommodate decoration for your mantel, including vases and lamps.

Some wood surrounds have a faceplate which covers the mantel's top and houses fireplace doors. This plate can be fixed with decorative hinges or fasteners that mimic the appearance of iron wrought.

When choosing a wood mantel or metal fireplace surround, it is important to take into consideration the height of your chimney. Building codes require minimum clearance distances to stop the spread of a fire into the home. This distance will vary based on the type of fireplace used and may also vary from country to country or state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

If you'd like your fireplace to have a classic wood look, there are different types of surrounds that can be purchased. Some surrounds are made of solid oak, while others combine stone legs with pine or oak mantels. You can also find oak or pine fireplace surrounds that are designed to be a low-cost and easy alternative.

Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround because it is an affordable way to achieve the style they desire without having to pay for the services of carpenters. Some pre-made surrounds made of pine are available in a variety finishes, so you can blend them into your existing decor.

Another type of wood fire surround is one that is hand-crafted from high-quality oak. This can be stained in a light oak color or left untreated to allow the natural light golden brown of the wood to shine through. This fireplace surround is ideal for wood or gas-burning fires and can be fitted either with a flat or arched opening.

For those of you who have more experience with DIY home improvement projects, there are plenty of tutorials available online to help you create your own fire surround from wood. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step guide by H2O Bungalow that shows you how to make a rustic inspired wood surround from pine.

The guide explains how to build the horizontal portion of the fireplace surround first, and then how to construct the columns or pilasters vertically that support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are completed, you can install your mantel. The tutorial also shows you how to attach the crown molding that will be used to fill in any gaps between the cladding and surrounding wall.

It is important to follow the local fire code when installing a wooden surround around the fireplace. It is recommended to keep the surround 6 inches from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround and ensure it stays in place.