Choosing a Fireplace Surround
If you are using a fireplace for aesthetics or warmth, the best surround will make your living space more unique. It isn't easy to select the right fireplace surround that is safe and in line with the code.
Fortunately, these custom surrounds are made of non-combustible material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any home style.
Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs
A fireplace surround can be a focal point of the room and can bring warmth and elegance. It is made with a selection of materials and be designed to match different styles of design. It is important to think about the design 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 wide variety of styles. They can be paired with rustic woods as well as modern metals to create an unique, contemporary design. Marble is easy to maintain, and it can withstand high temperature making it a good option for a surround.
Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless appeal and is suitable for many homes. It can be carved or etched to create a modern look, or left untouched to give it a classic feel. Stacked stone veneers can also be used to add texture and depth 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, which means it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can be molded and shaped to fit an upscale surround.
If you're a DIYer installing a concrete fireplace surround might be within your capabilities. Although it may seem difficult, this project can actually be much easier than you imagine if you plan ahead and collaborate with a professional to make sure the structure is strong enough.
A professional is also recommended when building 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're planning to use tile for your fireplace surround, ensure it's suitable for high-temperature uses. This information is usually located on the package or inquire with an employee at an improvement store for.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace's surround can transform an area. It's not just meant to look attractive, but also has a functional function, which is to protect the wall behind the fireplace from damage caused by fire and also to help reflect heat away from the room. It comes in a variety materials and can be customized to match any style or décor.
Choosing the right material for an inclined frame surround is key to creating an intentional aesthetic. Concrete is a good choice because it is durable and non-flammable. It also has a lot visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It is typically poured in molds to give you the option of creating an original shape.
When you design your leaning frame, make sure to add layers. This makes the piece appear more planned as opposed to being randomly placed. If you intend to display heavy items such as lamps or vases on leaning frames, place a piece of lining for drawers made of rubber under the base. This will stop them from sliding off or damaging surfaces.
If you're using a concrete or marble surround, think about adding a wooden board on the bottom to hold it in position. It will also lessen the weight and prevent the item from moving while you sip your cup of coffee or wine in the front of your fireplace.
Once you've decided on the material for your leaning frame surround, it's time to start building the actual piece. First, mark the new wall with the dimensions of your surround and use a sander to cut cleats along each of these marks. Make sure that the top cleat of the shelf is at least a foot shorter.
Screw the brackets on the wall. Make sure the bolts are inserted into the backerboard and into the stud. If needed, drill the screw holes. Then, you can temporarily secure the mantel to the backer board. Attach the mantel to the studs with lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure 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 both a decorative and functional purpose. They shield walls from heat damage and also reflect heat into the space and can make a fireplace an eye-catching feature in an area. Metal and wood are the most common materials used for fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds can be required by the building code to safeguard nearby combustible materials or they can improve the appearance of a fireplace.
The fireplace in this contemporary living space has the black firebox surround, with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, but it is a striking design aspect to the space. The black finish also ties together the dark tones of the wood flooring and furniture to create an overall look.
Concrete isn't just for sidewalks and driveways. It's also a versatile and attractive material that can be used to surround fireplaces. It can be poured in place and then shaped into any shape, offering you a wide range of design possibilities. The concrete surround has been shaped into a curving profile giving it a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the darker shades of the wood floor and brick wall.
Wood is a different popular material that is used for fireplace surrounds. It comes in many colors and textures that will complement any decor. Wooden surrounds are less heavy and more affordable than masonry surrounds and they can be finished to match the color of your current hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds can accommodate household decor above the mantel, such as lamps and vases.
Some wood surrounds include an ornamental faceplate that is placed on mantel's top and houses the doors to the fireplace. This plate can be affixed using decorative hinges or fasteners that replicate the appearance of wrought iron.
When choosing a mantel made of wood or a metal fireplace surround It is crucial to think about the height of your chimney. To prevent a fire spreading to your home, building codes require minimum clearances. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace, and may also vary from the country to the country or state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
If you'd like your fireplace to have a traditional wood appearance, there are different types of surrounds that can be purchased. Some surrounds are completely solid oak, while others use a combination of materials including stone legs, paired with oak or pine mantels. You can also choose from pine or oak fire surrounds, which are designed to be a cost-effective and simple option.
A lot of people choose to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround as this is an affordable way to achieve the look that they want without the expense of the services of a carpenter. Some of the premade wood surrounds are available in a variety finishes and colors, allowing you to match them to your existing decor.
Another popular style of wood fire surround is one that has been handcrafted from a high quality oak. It can be stained with the light oak color or left untreated to let the natural golden brown of the wood to shine through. This fireplace surround is suitable for gas or wood burning fires and can be fitted either with an arched or flat opening.
There are numerous tutorials online for those who have more experience with DIY home improvement projects. They can assist you in making your own wooden fireplace surround. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step guide from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to construct an authentic wood surround using pine.
The tutorial shows how to construct the horizontal component and then the vertical pilasters that support the mantel. Once the pilasters or columns are built you can put up your mantel. The guide will show you how to install the crown molding, which will fill in any gaps between the wall's cladding and the wall that surrounds it.
Since a wooden fireplace surround is made of combustible materials, it is important to adhere to the fire codes of your area and keep it at least 6 inches from the edge of the chimney opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround, and ensure that it stays in place.