The 10 Scariest Things About Fireplace Surround

Choosing a Fireplace Surround

Whether you use a fireplace to provide aesthetics or warmth, choosing the right surround can give your living room personality. However, selecting a fireplace surround that meets standards and is safe can be a difficult task.

Fortunately, these custom surrounds are made with non-combustible material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any home style.

Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble

A fireplace surround can be a focal point within an area and it can bring warmth and elegance. It is constructed with a selection of materials and be designed to fit different styles of design. It is important to think about the design of the room as well as the budget before choosing the style of the fireplace surround.

Marble fireplace surrounds give a sophisticated look that complements a variety of design styles. They can be paired with woods that are rustic or modern metals to create a unique and contemporary style. Marble is easy to maintain, and it can withstand high temperature making it an ideal option for a border.

Stone is a popular material for fireplace surrounds and has a timeless appearance that can be found in a variety of homes. It can be carved or etched for an updated look, or left untouched to give it a classic feel. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option that can be used to give texture and depth to rooms.

Granite is a very popular material for modern fireplace surrounds because it's strong and resistant to heat extremely 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 different, durable material that can be cut and formed to fit into a contemporary fireplace surround.

If you're a DIYer, installing a concrete freestanding fireplace surround could be within your capabilities. This task may seem daunting but it's much simpler than you think when you collaborate with an expert and think ahead.

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 mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If you're planning on using tile for your ethanol fireplace's surround, make sure it's suitable for high-temperature uses. 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 transform the entire space. It's not only meant to look beautiful, but also has a functional function that is to shield the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and to reflect heat away from the room. It comes in a variety materials and can be adapted for any style or decor.

The right material is essential for achieving a well-planned aesthetic. Concrete is an excellent choice because it's highly durable and non-flammable. It also offers an appealing visual appeal with its natural texture and color. It is typically poured in a mold to allow you to choose the possibility of making an original shape.

Layers are important when designing your leaning frames. This will make the frame appear curated and intentional rather than just randomly placed on the shelf or wall. If you are planning to display heavy items such as lamps or vases on frames that lean, put a piece of rubber drawer lining underneath the base. This will prevent them from sliding and damaging surfaces.

Consider adding a wooden board to the bottom of a concrete or marble surround. This will help to keep it in the right place. It will also help reduce the weight and stop the object from moving as you enjoy a cup of wine or coffee in front of your fireplace.

Once you have decided on the material, it is time to construct the actual piece. Mark the wall using the dimensions for your surround. Then, using a saw, cut cleats at each mark. Make sure that the cleat on the top of the shelf is at a minimum a foot shorter.

Next, screw the brackets onto the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted through the backer board, and into the wall stud. Pre-drilling the screw holes is required if you need to. After that, secure the mantel to the backer board. Attach the mantel to the studs with the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure the bolts are long and sturdy enough to cover the full thickness of the backerboard, plus 2/3 of the depth of the mantel.

Black Firebox Surround

Fireplace surrounds serve a decorative and functional purpose. They shield walls from damage from heat and also reflect heat into the space and can make a fireplace a focal piece in an area. Metal and wood are the most commonly used materials used to construct fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds are required by the building code in order to protect nearby combustible materials or they can enhance the look of a fireplace.

The fireplace in this modern living area has a black firebox surround with white marble accents. The stone is a premium material that requires more care than a mantel made of wood, however it is a striking and striking design element to the room. The black finish also joins together the dark tones in the furniture and wood flooring for an attractive appearance.

While you may associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it's actually a very versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be shaped into a variety of shapes and then poured into place, providing almost endless design possibilities. The concrete surround was formed to a curved profile. It gives an elegant and contemporary look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall fireplace and flooring.

Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, which comes in a wide range of textures and colors to fit into any decor. Wooden surrounds are less heavy and more affordable than masonry surrounds, and they can be finished to match the color of your existing hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to hold decorative items for the mantel, including lamps and vases.

Some wood surrounds include an ornamental faceplate that is placed on top of the mantel and houses the fireplace doors. The faceplate can be secured with hinges that are decorative or fasteners that mimic the appearance of the look of wrought iron.

It is essential to consider the dimensions of your fireplace when choosing a mantel made of wood. Building codes require minimum clearance distances to prevent the spread of ethanol fire into the home. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace, and can vary from country to country or from state to state.

Simple Wood Surround

There are many options available for surrounds if you wish to give your fireplace a traditional appearance. Some surrounds are completely solid oak while others are a combination of materials including stone legs that are paired with pine or oak mantels. You can also select pine or oak fire surrounds, which are designed to be a low-cost and easy choice.

Many people prefer to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround since it's an economical way to achieve the look they want without having to hire a carpenter. Some pre-made pine surrounds come in a variety finishes, so you can match them to your existing decor.

Another popular style of wood fire surround is one that is made by hand from a high quality oak. It can be stained with a light oak color or left untreated to let the natural golden brown of the wood to show through. This fireplace surround is ideal for gas or wood burning fireplaces and can be installed either with an arched or flat opening.

For those of you who have a bit more experience in DIY home improvement projects, there's a wealth of tutorials available online to help you create your own wood fire surround. One example is this thorough step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that teaches you how to make a rustic-looking wood surround from pine.

The tutorial explains how to construct the horizontal part of the fireplace surround first, and then how to construct the vertical pilasters or columns that support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are built, you can install your mantel. Then, the guide shows you how to attach the crown molding that will cover up any gaps between the cladding and the surrounding wall.

It is essential to adhere to the local fire code when putting in a wooden surround around the fireplace. It is recommended to keep the surround 6 inches away 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 place.