Choosing a Fireplace Surround
If you are using fireplaces for warmth or aesthetics, the perfect surround can make your living space more unique. However, selecting the right fireplace surround that is compliant with code and is safe can be a challenge.
Fortunately, these custom surrounds are constructed using non-combustible materials and adhere 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 within a room and it can bring warmth and elegance. It is constructed with a range of materials and be designed to match different styles of design. Before choosing a fireplace insert design it is essential to think about the style and budget of the space.
Marble fireplace surrounds provide a sophisticated look that complements various 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 temperature making it an ideal choice for a surround.
Stone is a classic material for fireplace suite surrounds that has a timeless look and works in many homes. It can be cut and etched to give it a more modern style or left untreated for a more traditional feel. Stacked stone veneers can be used to add depth and texture to the interior of a room.
Granite is a popular choice for modern fireplace surrounds due to the fact that it is durable and able to heat very well. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns so you can create different designs. Quartzite is a different, durable material that can be shaped and formed to fit into a contemporary fireplace surround.
If you're a DIYer making a fireplace surround made of concrete could be within your capabilities. Although it might seem like a daunting task, this project can actually be easier than you might imagine if you plan ahead and consult with a professional make sure the structure is sturdy enough.
It's also a good idea to consult with an expert before creating a fireplace surround made of marble, as it requires special care to prevent damage. A carpenter who has experience can help you avoid costly errors.
If you intend to use tiles as an interior fireplace surround, be sure it's rated for high temperatures. This information is usually found on the package or ask a staff member at an improvement store for.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround is a vital design element that can change the entire room. It is not only aesthetically appealing, but also serves a practical function. It protects the wall behind the fireplace from deterioration and reflects heat back into the space. It is available in a variety materials and can be customized for any style or decor.
The right material is crucial to achieve a definite aesthetic. Concrete is a good option because it's extremely durable and non-flammable. It also has lots of visual appeal due to its natural texture and color. It is usually poured in a mold to allow you to choose the possibility of making a unique shape.
Layers are crucial when designing your leaning frames. This makes the frame appear more curated than if it were just randomly placed. Leaning frames are dangerous, so if you're planning to display heavier objects, such as lamps or vases, put a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to keep them from falling or causing damage to surfaces.
If you're using a marble or concrete surround, think about adding an oak board at the bottom to help keep it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and keep the object from moving as you sip your cup of wine or coffee in the fireplace.
After you've decided on the material, it is time to construct the actual piece. Begin by marking the new wall with the dimensions of your surround and use a saw to cut cleats at each of these marks. Make sure that the cleat on the top of the shelf is at least one foot shorter.
Screw the brackets on the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted into the backerboard and into the stud. Pre-drilling the screw holes is recommended if required. Then you can temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Fix the mantel to studs using the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure that the bolts are long and strong enough to cover the thickness of the backerboard plus 2/3 of the mantel's depth.
Black Firebox Surround
Fireplace surrounds serve both a decorative and functional purpose. They protect walls against damage from heat and reflect heat into the room and can make a fireplace the focal point of a space. The most commonly used materials for fireplace surrounds include metal and wood. Metal surrounds may be required by building codes to safeguard nearby combustible surfaces or simply to enhance the look of a fireplace to make it appear more complete.
The fireplace in this modern living area has an all-black firebox with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, however it is a striking design element to the room. The black finish also brings together the dark tones in the wood flooring and furniture for an overall appearance.
While you may associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it is a very flexible and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be poured in place and then shaped into any shape, offering you almost limitless design possibilities. This concrete surround has been cut into a curving profile which gives it an elegant, modern appearance that contrasts with the darker hues of the wood floor and brick wall.
Wood is another popular choice for tabletop fireplace surrounds. It is available in a variety of colors and textures that will match any decor. Wooden surrounds can come in any color to fit your hearth pad. They are lighter and less expensive than brick surrounds. The majority of wooden surrounds can accommodate household decor above the mantel, including vases and lamps.
Some wood surrounds have an edging that covers the top of the mantel and houses fireplace doors. This plate can be attached with decorative fasteners or hinges that mimic the look of iron.
When choosing a wood mantel or a metal fireplace surround It is crucial to take into consideration the height of your chimney. To avoid a fire spreading to your home, building codes stipulate minimum clearances. The distance will vary based on what kind of fireplace you own and also from state to state or country country.
Simple Wood Surround
If you'd like your fireplace to have a classic wood appearance, there are different types of surrounds available for purchase. Certain surrounds are constructed of solid oak, while others combine stone legs with oak or pine mantels. There are also oak or pine fireplace surrounds that are designed to be a simple and affordable alternative.
Many people choose to purchase a pre-made fireplace surround because it is an economical way to achieve the style they want without having to hire carpenters. Some pre-made surrounds made of pine are available in a variety finishes and colors, allowing you to match them to your existing decor.
A handcrafted wood fire surround made from high quality oak is also popular. It can be stained to in a light oak hue or left untreated to ensure that the natural golden brown of the wood is visible. This fireplace surround is ideal for wood or gas burning fireplaces (click here to investigate) and can be installed either with a flat or arched opening.
For those who have a bit more experience with DIY home improvement projects, there's a wealth of tutorials online that can help you to make your own wood fire surround. This step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow will show you how to create a rustic wood surround using pine.
The guide explains how to build the horizontal component of the fireplace surround first. Then, you will learn how to construct the vertical pilasters or columns that support the mantel. Once these are complete you can put in the mantel itself. The tutorial will show how to install the crown molding, which will fill in any gaps between the cladding of the wall and the wall surrounding it.
Since a wooden fireplace surround is made from combustible material it is crucial to adhere to the local fire code and keep it at least 6 inches away from the edge of the chimney opening. It is also important to use a non-flammable glue to attach the decorative molding and make sure that it stays in place after the surround is set.