Choosing a Fireplace Surround
The perfect surround can add character to your living area regardless of whether you are using it for warmth or for aesthetics. However, choosing a fireplace surround that complies with the requirements of code and is safe could be a challenge.
These custom-built surrounds are made of non-combustible materials that adhere to the National Fire Code. They look great in any home style.
Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs
A fireplace surround can be a focal point in the room and can bring warmth and elegance. It is constructed with a variety of materials and can be designed to fit different design styles. It is important to think about the style of the room and the budget prior to deciding on the style of the fireplace surround.
Marble fireplace surrounds give an elegant look that is compatible with a variety of design styles. They can be combined with rustic woods and modern metals to create an unique, contemporary design. Marble is relatively easy to maintain and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplace surrounds.
Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds that has a timeless look 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 are a popular option that can be used to add texture and depth to a room.
Granite is a very sought-after choice for modern surrounds around fireplaces. It's tough and able to be able to withstand heat well. It is also available in a range of patterns and colors, which means it can be used to create a variety of styles. Quartzite is another durable option that can be shaped and molded to fit a modern fireplace surround.
If you're a handyman, making a fireplace surround made of concrete could be within your capabilities. Although it may seem difficult, this project can actually be simpler than you imagine if you plan ahead and work 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 particular 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 going to use tile for your fireplace's surround, make sure it's approved for high-temperature use. You'll typically find this information on the package or ask an employee at a local home improvement store.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround is an essential design element that can completely transform the entire room. It's not only visually pleasing but it also serves a functional purpose. It protects the wall behind the bioethanol fire place from damage and reflects heat back into the space. It is available in a variety materials and can be customized to match any style or décor.
The right material to use for an inclined frame surround is crucial to create an aesthetic that is purposeful. Concrete is a good choice due to its durability, nonflammable and has a lot of visual appeal with its natural texture and color. Concrete is typically poured into molds to allow you to choose the option of creating unique shapes.
When designing your leaning frame, make sure to include layers. This makes the piece appear more curated as opposed to being randomly placed. Leaning frames can be risky, so if you're planning to display heavier objects such as lamps or vases, place a small piece of rubber drawer liner underneath the base to stop them from sliding or damaging surfaces.
If you're using a concrete or marble surround, consider adding a wooden board on the bottom to keep it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and prevent the item from moving while you enjoy a cup of wine or coffee in front of your fireplace.
Once you've chosen the material for your leaning frame surround and frame, you can begin making the actual piece. Begin by marking the new wall with the dimensions of your surround and then use a saw to cut cleats on each of these points. Make sure the top cleat is at least 1 foot shorter than the shelf.
Attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure the bolts pass through the backer board and into the stud. The pre-drilling of the screw holes is necessary if needed. 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). Be sure that the bolts are sufficient to cover 2/3 of the mantel depth plus the thickness of the backer board.
Black Firebox Surround
Fireplace surrounds serve both an aesthetic and a functional function. They protect walls from heat damage and help deflect some heat back into the room, and can create a fireplace that is an attraction in a space. The most commonly used materials used for fireplace surrounds are wood and steel. Metal surrounds can be required by building code to guard against nearby combustible substances or they can enhance the appearance of a fireplace.
This freestanding fireplace is a modern living room with an all-black surround and white marble accents. The stone is more expensive and requires more care than wood, but it provides a striking design element to the room. The black finish also brings together the dark tones in the furniture and wood flooring for an attractive design.
While you might think of concrete as sidewalks or driveways, it's actually a very versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be poured into place and shaped into any shape, offering you a wide range of design possibilities. The concrete surround has been cut into a curved shape giving it a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the darker shades of the brick floor and wood wall.
Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, which comes in a variety of textures and colors to match any style. Wooden surrounds can be crafted in any color to fit your hearth pad. They are less heavy and more affordable than masonry surrounds. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate household decorations above the mantel, like lamps and vases.
Certain wood surrounds come with an edging that covers the top of the mantel and houses doors for fireplaces. This plate can be hung to the mantel with hinges or marble fireplace decorative fasteners which resemble the appearance of iron.
When choosing a mantel made of wood or metal fireplace surround It is crucial to consider the height of your chimney. To prevent a fire spreading to your home, building codes require minimum clearances. This distance will vary based on the type of fireplace and can also change from the country to the country or 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 use an assortment of materials, including stone legs matched with oak or pine mantels. You can also choose from oak or pine bioethanol fire surrounds, which are designed to be an affordable and simple option.
Many people prefer to purchase a pre-made fireplace surround because it is a cost-effective way to achieve the style they want without having to hire a carpenter. Some of the pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are available in a range of different finishes so that you can match it to your existing decor.
Another popular style of wood fire surround is one that has been handcrafted from high-quality oak. It can be stained to a light oak color or left untreated to let the natural golden brown of the wood to show through. The fireplace surround can be used with either gas or wood fireplaces. It comes in two styles: arched or flat.
For those who have more experience in DIY home improvement projects, there are a lot of tutorials on the internet that will assist you in creating your own wood fire surround. This step-by-step guide from H2O Bungalow shows how to build a rustic wood surround using pine.
The tutorial shows you how to build first the horizontal component and then the vertical pilasters which support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are completed you can put up your mantel. The tutorial also shows you how to add the crown molding that will cover up any gaps between the cladding and the wall.
It is important to follow the local fire code when installing a wooden surround around the fireplace. You should keep the surround at least 6 inches away from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue join the decorative molding to the surround and ensure it is held in the proper position.