Choosing a Fireplace Surround

The perfect surround can add character to your living room and can be used for warmth or for aesthetics. It isn't easy to select the right fireplace surround that is safe and complies with the code.

These custom-built surrounds are built from non-combustible material that adheres to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any style of home.

Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble

A fireplace surround can be a focal point in an area and it can add warmth and charm. It is made of various materials and crafted to match various styles of design. It's important to consider the design of the room as well as the budget before 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 or more modern metals to create a unique, contemporary design. Marble is easy to maintain and can withstand extreme temperatures making it an ideal option for a border.

Stone is a classic fireplace surround material that has a timeless look and is suitable for many homes. It can be cut and cut to give it a modern style or left untreated for a more traditional appearance. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option that can be used to add texture and depth to a room.

Granite is a popular choice for modern fireplace surrounds because it's strong and resistant to heat very well. It also comes in a range of patterns and colors, so it can be used to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite is a second option that can be shaped and molded to fit a modern fireplace surround.

Installing a concrete enclosure for a fireplace could be possible for DIYers. While it may seem daunting however, it could be easier than you might imagine if you plan ahead and collaborate with a professional to ensure that 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 can help avoid making mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you're planning on using tiles for your fireplace surround, be sure it's suitable for high-temperature uses. You'll typically find this information on the package or ask an employee at a home improvement shop.

Leaning Frame Surround

The fireplace surround is a crucial design element that can transform the whole space. It's not just designed to look attractive, but also has a functional function that is to shield the wall behind the fireplace from damage caused by fire and to reflect heat back into the room. It is available in a variety materials and can be customized for any style or decor.

The right choice of material is crucial to achieve a definite aesthetic. Concrete is an excellent option because it's extremely durable, nonflammable and has a lot of visual appeal thanks to its natural texture and color. It's typically put into a mold, which allows you 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 than if it were just randomly placed. If you intend to display heavy objects like vases or lamps on leaning frames, you can place a piece of rubber drawer lining beneath the base. This will prevent them from sliding off or damaging surfaces.

If you're using a concrete or marble surround, you might want to consider putting wooden boards on the bottom to help keep it in position. It can also help reduce the weight of the object and prevent it from moving while you sip a refreshing glass of wine or a cup of coffee on your mantel.

After you've selected the material for your frame's leaning frame then it's time to begin building the actual piece. Begin by marking the wall you're building with the dimensions of your surround and use a sander to cut cleats on each of these points. Make sure that the cleat on the top of the shelf is at a minimum a foot shorter.

Then, attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts pass through the backer board, and into a wall stud. If necessary, pre-drill the screw holes. Then put the mantel in a clamp that is temporarily on the backer board. Fix the mantel using the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure the bolts are long and sturdy enough to cover the entire thickness of the backerboard plus 2/3 of the mantel's thickness.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve as an aesthetic and functional function. They protect walls from heat damage and help deflect some heat back into the room and can make a fireplace 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 aesthetics of a fireplace.

This fireplace is a contemporary living room with a black surround and white marble accents. The stone is a premium material that requires more care than a mantel made of wood, however it provides a dramatic and striking design element to the room. The black finish also joins together the dark tones in the wood flooring and furniture to create an attractive design.

Concrete isn't just for sidewalks and driveways. It's also a beautiful and versatile material that can be used to surround fireplaces. It can be formed into custom shapes and then poured in place, allowing for almost endless design options. This concrete surround was cut into a curved shape. It has an elegant and contemporary look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall and floor.

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, that is available in a wide variety of colors and textures to fit into any decor. Wooden surrounds can be crafted in any color to fit your hearth pad. They are less heavy and less expensive than brick surrounds. Most wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate household decorations above the mantel, like lamps and vases.

Some wood surrounds come with a faceplate that covers the mantel's top and houses the fireplace doors. The faceplate can be attached to the mantel with hinges or decorative fasteners that resemble the look of iron.

When choosing a mantel made of wood or a metal freestanding fireplace surround, it is important to think about the height of your chimney. Building codes require minimum clearance distances to stop the spread of fire into the home. This distance may vary based on what type of fireplace you have and also from state state or country to country.

Simple Wood Surround

If you'd like your fireplace to have a classic wood appearance, there are different types of surrounds that you can purchase. Some surrounds are entirely solid oak while others are an assortment of materials, including stone legs, paired with oak or pine mantels. You can also pick from oak or pine fire surrounds, which are designed to be an affordable and simple option.

Many people opt to purchase a pre-made wooden tabletop fireplace surround since it's an inexpensive way to get the look that they want without having to pay for the services of carpenters. Some of the pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are available in a variety of finishes so that you can blend it with your existing decor.

A wood fire surround that is hand-crafted made from high quality oak is also very popular. This can be stained a light oak color or left untreated so that the natural golden brown of wood can be seen. This fireplace surround is suitable for gas or wood burning electric fireplaces and can be installed either with a flat or arched opening.

There are numerous tutorials online for those with more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can help you make your own fireplace surround made of wood. This comprehensive step-bystep guide from H2O Bungalow shows you how to create a rustic wood surround using pine.

The tutorial will show you how to construct the horizontal part of the fireplace surround first, then how to build the columns or pilasters vertically that support the mantel. Once these are complete you can put in the mantel. The tutorial also will show you how to install the crown molding to fill in any gaps between the cladding and the wall.

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