Choosing a Fireplace Surround

The perfect surround can add character to your living area, whether you use it for warmth or to enhance your aesthetics. However, selecting the right fireplace surround that is compliant with code and is safe can be a challenge.

The custom-built surrounds are constructed from non-combustible material that adheres to the National Fire Code. They are a great addition to any style of home.

Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble

A fireplace surround can be a focal point in the room and can bring warmth and elegance. It can be constructed from a variety of materials, and designed to fit various styles of design. It's important to consider the design of the room as well as the budget prior to deciding on a fireplace surround design.

Marble fireplace surrounds offer a sophisticated look that complements many different styles of design. They can be paired with rustic woods and more modern metals to create an distinctive, modern design. Marble is easy to maintain and it can withstand high temperature, making it a great option for a surround.

stone fireplaces is a classic fireplace surround material that has a timeless look and can be used in a variety of homes. It can be carved or etched for contemporary appearance or left unfinished to give it a classic feel. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option to give depth and texture to a room.

Granite is a popular choice for modern fireplace surrounds since it is durable and able to heat very well. It also comes in a variety of patterns and colors so it can be used to create various styles of design. Quartzite is a different, durable material that can be shaped and made into a modern fireplace surround.

Installing a concrete surround for a fireplace might be feasible for DIYers. Although it might seem like a daunting task however, it could be simpler than you imagine if you plan ahead and work with a professional to ensure that the structure is sturdy enough.

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

If you are planning to use tile as a fireplace surround, you must make sure it's rated for high temperatures. You'll find this information on the packaging or ask an employee at a home improvement shop.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace surround can completely transform the look of a room. It's not just designed to look attractive, but also has a functional purpose that is to shield the wall behind the fireplace from damage caused by fire and deflect heat back into the room. It is available in a variety materials and can be adapted to match any style or décor.

Choosing the right material for an inclined frame surround is essential to achieve an intentional design. Concrete is a great option because it's extremely durable, nonflammable and has an appealing visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It's typically placed into a mold giving you the opportunity to design a unique shape for your fireplace surround.

When designing your leaning frame, make sure to add in layers. This makes the piece appear curated and intentional rather than just randomly placed on the wall or shelf. If you intend to display heavy objects like lamps or vases on leaning frames, place a piece of lining for drawers made of rubber beneath the base. This will prevent them from sliding or damaging surfaces.

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

After you have chosen the material, it's time to construct the piece. First, mark the wall you're building with the dimensions of your frame and use a sander to cut cleats along each of these points. Make sure the top cleat is at least a foot shorter than the shelf.

Screw the brackets on the wall. Make sure the bolts pass through the backer board and then into the nail. If necessary, pre-drill the screw holes. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Screw the mantel with lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure the bolts are long enough to cover 2/3 of the mantel's thickness plus the thickness of the backer board.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve a practical and decorative function. They shield walls from heat damage and also reflect heat into the space, and can make a fire more of a focal piece in a space. The most popular materials used for fireplace surrounds are wood and steel. Metal surrounds can be required by building codes to protect nearby combustible surfaces or they may simply improve the appearance of a fireplace, making it appear more complete.

The fireplace in this modern living space has the black firebox surround, with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, yet it is a striking design aspect to the space. The black finish also joins with the dark tones of the wood flooring and furniture to create an overall design.

Concrete isn't just for driveways and sidewalks. It's also a versatile and attractive material that can be used to enclose fireplaces. It can be shaped into a variety of shapes and then poured into place, providing nearly limitless design possibilities. This concrete surround has been cut into a curving profile, creating a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the darker tones of the wood floor and brick wall.

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, which is available in a wide range of colors and textures to complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are less heavy and more economical than masonry surrounds and they can be finished to match the color of your current hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to hold household decorations above the mantel, including lamps and vases.

Certain wood surrounds have an ornamental faceplate that is placed on top of the mantel and houses the fireplace doors. This plate can be fixed with decorative hinges or fasteners that mimic the appearance of wrought iron.

It is crucial to take into account the size of your fireplace when choosing a wood mantel. Building codes specify minimum clearance distances to stop the spread of fire into the home. This distance will vary depending on the type of fireplace and can vary from country to country or state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

If you'd like your fireplace to have a traditional wood look, there are many kinds 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 pick from oak or pine fire surrounds, which are designed to be an affordable and easy option.

A lot of people opt to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround as this is an inexpensive way to get the look they want without the expense of the services of carpenters. Some pre-made surrounds made of pine are available with a variety of finishes and colors, allowing you to blend them into your existing decor.

A handcrafted wood ethonal fire surround constructed from top quality oak is also a popular choice. It can be stained to a light oak colour or left untreated, allowing 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.

There are numerous tutorials online for those with more experience with DIY home improvement projects. They can assist you in making your own fireplace surround from wood. One example is this thorough step-by-step guide from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to construct an authentic wood surround using pine.

The tutorial teaches you how to build first the horizontal component before building the vertical pilasters which support the mantel. Once these are complete then you can build the mantel. Then, the guide will show you how to install the crown molding that will cover up any gaps between the cladding and surrounding wall fireplace.

It is crucial to adhere to the local fire code when installing a wooden surround around the fireplace. You should keep the surround at least 6 inches from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue to join the decorative molding to the surround and make sure it stays in the proper position.