Choosing a Fireplace Surround

The right surround can add personality to your living area, whether you use it for warmth or to enhance your aesthetics. However, choosing a fireplace surround that meets the requirements of code and is safe could be a difficult task.

Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are made with non-combustible materials and adhere to the National Fire Code. They can look great in any style of home.

Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs

A fireplace surround can be a focal point in the room and can bring warmth and elegance. It is made from a wide selection of materials and be designed to fit different design styles. It is essential to consider the style of the room and the budget prior to deciding on the design of a fireplace surround.

Marble fireplace surrounds are a classy option that can be paired with a broad range of design styles. They can be combined with rustic woods and more modern metals to create a unique, contemporary design. Marble is easy to maintain, and it can withstand high temperature, making it a great option for a border.

Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless look and is suitable for many homes. It can be carved or etched for contemporary appearance or left unfinished to give it a traditional look. Stacked stone fireplaces veneers may also be used to add depth and texture to a room.

Granite is a popular material for modern fireplace surrounds because it is durable and able to heat very well. It's also available in a variety of patterns and colors so it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can be made into a shape and molded to fit an upscale surround.

If you're a DIYer, the installation of a concrete fireplace surround might be within your capabilities. This task may seem daunting however it's much simpler than you think working with an expert and prepare ahead.

A professional is also recommended when creating a marble fireplace surround, as it requires special attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter can help you avoid making mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you intend to use tiles as a fireplace surround, make sure it's suitable for high temperatures. This information is usually found on the package, or you can inquire with an employee at the home improvement store.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace surround is an essential design element that can completely transform the whole space. It is not only aesthetically appealing but also serves a practical purpose. It protects the wall behind the fire place from damage and also reflects heat back into the space. It's available in various materials and can be customized to match any style or design.

The right material is essential to achieving a deliberate aesthetic. Concrete is a great choice because it is strong, non-flammable, and has a lot visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It's usually put into a mold, giving you the opportunity to create a unique shape for your fireplace surround.

When designing your leaning frame, be sure to include layers. This makes the piece appear more planned and curated rather than just randomly placed on the shelf or wall. Leaning frames can be dangerous, so if you're planning to display heavier objects, such as lamps or vases, place a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to stop them from sliding or damaging surfaces.

If you're using a marble or concrete surround, think about adding an oak board at the bottom to hold it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and keep the object from moving as you enjoy a cup of wine or coffee in front of your fireplace.

After you have chosen the material, it is time to construct the piece. Mark the wall with the dimensions for your surround. Then using a saw cut cleats along each line. Make sure that the cleat on the top of the shelf is at a minimum a foot shorter.

Attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts go through the backer board and into a nail. If necessary, drill the screw holes. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Fix the mantel using lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure 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 useful and decorative role. They shield walls from damage caused by heat and also help to redirect some of the heat back into the room, and can make a fireplace more of a focal point in a space. The most commonly used materials for fireplace surrounds are wood and steel. Metal surrounds are required by building code to safeguard nearby combustible materials or they can improve the appearance of a fireplace.

The fireplace in this contemporary living space has an all-black firebox with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, yet it adds an eye-catching design aspect to the room. The black finish also joins with the dark tones of the wood flooring and furniture for an attractive look.

Concrete is not just for sidewalks and driveways. It's also a versatile and attractive material that can be used to enclose fireplaces. It can be poured into place and shaped into any shape, offering you almost limitless design possibilities. This concrete surround was cut to a curved profile. It has a sleek and modern look that contrasts with the darker shades of the brick wall and flooring.

Wood is another popular choice for fireplace surrounds. It comes in a variety of colors and textures that will match any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds can be crafted in any shade to fit your hearth pad. They are less heavy and more affordable than brick surrounds. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate decorative items for the mantel, like lamps and vases.

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

When selecting a wood mantel or a fireplace surround made of metal, 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. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace stove, and can also change from country to country or from state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

There are many options for surrounds if you wish to give your fireplace a classic look. Certain surrounds are constructed of solid oak, while others combine stone legs with oak or pine mantels. You can also select pine or oak fire surrounds which are designed to be a cost-effective and easy option.

Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround because it is an inexpensive method of getting the look they want without the expense of the services of a carpenter. Some pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are available in a range of different finishes to blend it with your existing decor.

Another style of wood fire surround is one that has been handcrafted from a high quality oak. It can be stained with a light oak color or left untreated, allowing the natural light golden brown of the wood to shine through. This fireplace surround is suitable for gas or wood fires. It is available in two styles: arched or flat.

There are a lot of tutorials available online for those who have more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can assist you in making your own wooden fireplace surround. One example is this thorough step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to make an authentic wood surround from pine.

The guide explains how to construct the horizontal part of the fireplace surround first, then how to construct the columns or pilasters vertically that support the mantel. After these are built, you can install the mantel. The tutorial will show you how to install the crown molding, which will cover any gaps between the wall's cladding and the wall that surrounds it.

It is important to follow 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. It is also crucial to use a non-flammable glue to attach the decorative molding and ensure that it remains in place when the surround is installed.