Choosing a Fireplace Surround

If you are using a freestanding fireplace for warmth or aesthetics, the best surround will make your living space more unique. But choosing the right fireplace surround that is compliant with the requirements of code and is safe could be a daunting task.

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

Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble

A fireplace surround can be an important focal point in the room, and can add warmth and charm. It is made from a wide range of materials and be designed to match different design styles. It's important to consider the style of the room as well as the budget prior to deciding on the style of the fireplace surround.

Marble Fireplace (Http://Www.Honorsenglish77.Com/Bbs/Board.Php?Bo_Table=Free&Wr_Id=60227) surrounds give a sophisticated appearance that can be paired with various styles of design. They can be coupled with rustic woods or modern metals to create a unique, contemporary design. Marble is relatively easy to maintain and is able to withstand high temperatures, which makes it a perfect material for a electric fireplace surround.

Stone is a classic fireplace surround material that has a timeless appeal and works in many homes. It can be carved and etched to give it a more contemporary appearance or left unfinished for a more traditional feel. Stacked stone veneers are another popular option that can be used to give depth and texture to a room.

Granite is a popular choice for modern surrounds around cheap fireplaces. It is durable and can withstand heat well. It's also available in a range of patterns and colors, so it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can also be formed and shaped to match an upscale surround.

If you're a DIYer installing a concrete fireplace surround might be within your capabilities. While it may seem daunting but it can be much easier than you imagine if you plan ahead and work with a professional to make sure 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 can help avoid making mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you're planning on using tile for your fireplace's surround, make sure it's rated for high-temperature applications. This information is usually found on the packaging or you can inquire with an employee at an improvement store for.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace surround is an essential design element that can completely transform the whole space. It's not just meant to look beautiful, but also serves a practical function that is to shield the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and also to help reflect heat away from the room. It is available in a variety of materials and is customizable for any style or decor.

The right material is essential to achieve a definite aesthetic. Concrete is a great option because it is strong, non-flammable, and has a lot of visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It is usually poured in molds to allow you to choose the option of creating unique shapes.

Layers are important when creating your leaning frames. This helps the piece look curated and intentional rather than just randomly placed on the shelf or wall. If you are planning to display heavy objects such as vases or lamps on leaning frames, place a piece of lining for drawers made of rubber under the base. This will prevent them from sliding or damaging surfaces.

If you're using a marble or concrete surround, consider adding wooden boards on the bottom to help keep it in the right place. It will also help reduce the weight and stop the object from shifting while you sip your cup of coffee or wine in the front of your fireplace.

After you've selected the material for your leaning frame surround and frame, you can begin building the actual piece. First, mark your new wall with the dimensions of your frame and then use a saw to cut cleats at each of these points. Make sure the top cleat is at least one foot longer than the shelf.

Next, screw the brackets to the wall. Make sure the bolts go through the backer board and into a wall stud. Pre-drilling the screw holes is recommended if required. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Screw the mantel with the 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 depth of the mantel.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds play a useful and decorative function. They protect walls from damage from heat, reflect some of the heat back into the room, and can make a fire more of an eye-catching feature in the space. Metal and wood are the most common materials used for fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds are required by building code to guard against nearby combustible substances or they can enhance the appearance of a fireplace.

This fireplace is a contemporary living room with an all-black surround and white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more maintenance than wood, yet it is a striking design aspect to the room. The black finish also joins together the dark tones of the wood flooring and furniture to create an overall design.

While you might associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it's actually a very versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be formed into custom shapes and then poured in place, allowing for virtually unlimited designs. The concrete surround has been shaped into a curved profile which gives it a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the darker tones of the brick floor and wood wall.

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, that is available in a variety of textures and colors that complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are lighter and more affordable than masonry surrounds and they can be finished to match the color of your existing hearth pad. Most wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate household decorations above the mantel, including lamps and vases.

Certain wood surrounds have an edging that is placed on mantel's top and houses the doors to the fireplace. This plate can be affixed with decorative hinges or fasteners that can mimic the appearance of wrought iron.

It is important to take into consideration the height of your fireplace when choosing the wood mantel. Building codes specify minimum clearance distances that prevent the spread of fire into the home. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace used and can also change from the country to the country or state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

If you'd like your fireplace to have a classic wood look, there are many different kinds of surrounds that can be purchased. Some surrounds are entirely solid oak and others have a combination of materials including stone legs, paired with mantels made of oak or pine. You can also choose from oak or pine fire surrounds which are designed to be a low-cost and easy choice.

A lot of people opt to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround because it is an affordable way to achieve the style they desire without having to pay for the services of a carpenter. Certain pre-made pine fireplace surrounds come in a variety of finishes so that you can make it a part of your existing decor.

A wood fire surround that is hand-crafted constructed from top quality oak is also very popular. It can be stained to a light oak color or left untreated, allowing the natural golden brown of the wood to shine through. The fireplace surround is suitable for gas or wood fires. It is available in two different styles: arched or flat.

There are many tutorials available online for those who have more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can help you build your own fireplace surround from wood. This step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow shows you how to create an authentic wood surround made of pine.

The tutorial teaches you how to build the horizontal pilasters and then the vertical pilasters that support the mantel. Once the pilasters or columns are completed then you can place your mantel. The tutorial will show you how to put up the crown molding, which will cover any gaps between the cladding of the wall and the surrounding wall.

It is important to follow the local fire code when you install a wooden surround around a fireplace. You should keep the surround at least 6 inches away from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround and make sure it remains in the proper position.