Choosing a Fireplace Surround

If you're using fireplaces for warmth or aesthetics, the right surround can make your living space more unique. However, selecting 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 material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look great in any home style.

Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs

A fireplace surround can be a focal point in an area and it can bring warmth and elegance. It can be made from a variety of materials, and designed to fit various styles of design. Before you decide on a fireplace design it is essential to think about the design and budget of the room.

Marble fireplace surrounds are an elegant option that can be paired with a broad range of design styles. They can be combined with rustic woods and modern metals to create an distinctive, modern design. Marble is relatively easy to maintain and is able to withstand extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplace surrounds.

Stone is a classic fireplace surround material that has a timeless appeal and is suitable for many homes. It can be carved and polished to give it a more modern look or left untouched to give a more traditional look. Stacked stone veneers can also be used to add texture and depth to a room.

Granite is a popular material for modern fireplace surrounds since it is durable and able to heat extremely well. It also comes in a variety of patterns and colors, which means it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can be also formed and shaped to match an upscale surround.

The installation of a concrete surround for a fireplace might be possible for DIYers. Although it may seem difficult but it can be simpler than you imagine if you plan ahead 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 a lot of attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter will help you avoid making mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you intend to use tiles as an interior fireplace surround, be 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 a vital design element that can change the whole space. It's not just meant to be aesthetically pleasing but also serves a practical function that is to safeguard the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and also to help reflect heat away from the room. It's available in a variety of materials and can be customized to suit any style or decor.

Selecting the right material for an inclined frame surround is crucial to create an intentional aesthetic. Concrete is a great option because it is strong, non-flammable, and is attractive due to its natural texture and color. It's typically put into a mold, which allows you to design a unique shape for your fireplace surround.

Layers are important when creating your leaning frames. This will make the frame appear curated and intentional rather than just randomly placed on the wall or shelf. Leaning frames can be dangerous and should be avoided if you plan to display heavy objects, such as lamps or vases, put 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, you might want to consider putting an oak board at the bottom to hold it in place. It will also help in reducing the weight of the object and prevent it from moving while you enjoy a good glass of wine or coffee in front of your fireplace.

After you've selected the material for your frame's leaning frame, it's time to start constructing the actual piece. Begin by marking the wall you're building with the dimensions of your frame and then use a saw to cut cleats along each of these marks. Make sure the top cleat is at least 1 foot shorter than the shelf.

Next, screw the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted through the backer board and into a nail. If necessary, drill the screw holes. Then you can temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Fix the mantel to studs using lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure that the bolts are sufficient to cover 2/3 of the mantel depth + the thickness of the backer board.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve both a decorative and functional purpose. They shield walls from damage caused by heat, deflect some of the heat back into the room and can make a fireplace an attraction in a space. Metal and wood are the most commonly used materials used for fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds are required by the building code in order to protect nearby combustible materials or they can improve the aesthetics of a fireplace.

The fireplace in this modern living area has a black firebox surround with white marble accents. The stone is more expensive and requires more care than wood, however it provides a striking design aspect to the room. The black finish also brings with the dark tones of the furniture and the wood flooring to create a unified appearance.

While you might think of concrete as sidewalks or driveways, it's actually a very versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be cut into custom shapes and then poured in place, allowing for nearly limitless design options. This concrete surround was shaped to create a curved design. It creates a sleek and modern look that contrasts with the darker shades of the brick wall and wood floor.

Wood is another popular choice for fireplace surrounds. It comes in many colors and textures that can be incorporated into any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds can be finished in any shade to complement your hearth pad. They are lighter and more affordable than masonry surrounds. Most wooden surrounds are designed to hold ornaments for the mantel, including lamps and vases.

Some wood surrounds have an edging that covers the top of mantel and houses doors for electric fireplaces. The faceplate can be attached to the mantel with hinges or decorative fasteners which resemble the appearance of iron.

When selecting a wood mantel or metal fireplace surround It is crucial to consider the height of your chimney. Building codes specify minimum clearance distances to stop the spread of fire into the home. This distance will vary based on the type of fireplace, and may also vary from country to country or state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

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

Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround as this is an inexpensive method of getting the style they desire without having to pay for the services of a carpenter. Some pre-made wood surrounds are available with a variety of finishes, so you can blend them into your existing decor.

A handcrafted wood fire surround constructed from top quality oak is also very popular. It can be stained with an oak-like light color or left untreated so that the natural golden brown of wood is visible. This fireplace surround is suitable for wood or gas fires. It is available in two styles: arched or flat.

There are many tutorials available online for those who have more experience with DIY home improvement projects. They can help you build your own wooden fireplace surround. This step-by-step guide from H2O Bungalow shows you how to make an attractive wood surround with pine.

The tutorial shows how to construct the horizontal pilasters and then the vertical pilasters which support the mantel. After the columns or pilasters are built then you can place your mantel. The tutorial also shows you how to attach the crown molding to cover up any gaps between the cladding and surrounding wall.

Since a wooden fireplace surround is made of combustible materials it is crucial to adhere to the local ethonal fire code and keep it at least 6 inches from the edge of the chimney opening. It is also important to use a non-flammable adhesive to secure the decorative molding, and to ensure that it remains in place after the surround is set.