Choosing a Fireplace Surround
Whether you use a fireplace for aesthetics or warmth, the right surround can make your living space more unique. It can be difficult to pick the right fireplace surround that is safe and in line with the code.
Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are made of non-combustible materials that adhere to the National Fire Code. They can look great in any style of home.
Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs
A fireplace surround is a focal point for a room, and can add warmth and charm. It is constructed with a variety of materials and can be designed to match different styles of design. It is important to think about the design of the room as well as the budget before choosing the design of a fireplace surround.
Marble fireplace surrounds provide an elegant look that is compatible with various styles of design. They can be combined with rustic woods as well as modern metals to create an unique, contemporary look. Marble is easy to maintain and can withstand extreme temperatures making it a good choice for a surround.
Stone is a timeless material for fireplace surrounds and provides a timeless look that can be found in a variety of homes. It can be carved and cut to give it a more contemporary style or left untreated for a more traditional feel. Stacked stone veneers can be used to add depth and texture to rooms.
Granite is a very popular material for modern fireplace surrounds due to the fact that it is durable and able to heat very well. It also comes in a range of patterns and colors, making it a great choice to create a variety of styles. Quartzite is another durable option that can be shaped and formed to fit into a contemporary fireplace surround.
If you're a handyman, making a fireplace surround made of concrete might be within your capabilities. While it may seem daunting, this project can actually be much easier than you think if you plan ahead and collaborate with a professional to make sure the structure is sturdy enough.
A professional is also recommended when creating a marble fireplace surround, as it requires special attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter can help you avoid mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.
If you're going to use tile for your fireplace's surround, be sure it's approved for high-temperature use. This information is usually located on the package or ask an employee in the home improvement store.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround is a crucial design element that can transform the entire room. It's not just visually appealing, but also serves a practical function. It shields the wall that surrounds the fireplace from damage and reflects heat back into the room. It's available in a variety of materials and can be customized to match any style or decor.
Choosing the right material for the frame's leaning surround is key to creating an intentional aesthetic. Concrete is a great choice because it is durable, non-flammable, and has a lot visual appeal due to its natural texture and colour. It is usually poured in molds to give you the option of creating unique shapes.
When you design your leaning frame, make sure to add layers. This will make the frame appear deliberate and thoughtful rather than being thrown randomly on the wall or shelf. If you plan to display heavy items such as vases or lamps on frames that lean, put a piece of rubber drawer lining underneath the base. This will prevent them from sliding off or damaging surfaces.
Consider adding a wooden board to the bottom of a concrete or a marble surround. This will help to keep it in the right place. It will also lessen the weight and prevent the item from moving while you sip your cup of wine or coffee in the front of your fireplace.
Once you've decided on the material you'll use for your frame's leaning frame then it's time to begin constructing the actual piece. Mark the wall with the dimensions of your frame. Then using a saw cut cleats along each line. Ensure that the top cleat is at least 1 foot longer than the shelf.
Attach the brackets to the wall. Make sure the bolts are inserted through the backer board and then into a nail. If needed, drill the screw holes. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Screw the mantel with bolts for lag (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure that the bolts are strong and long enough to cover the full thickness of the backerboard, plus 2/3 of the mantel's thickness.
Black Firebox Surround
Fireplace surrounds play a functional and decorative function. They protect walls against heat damage, reflect heat into the room, and can make a fire more of the focal point of the space. Wood and metal are the most common materials used to construct fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds can be required by building codes to protect the surrounding areas from combustibles or they may simply enhance the look of a fireplace to make it appear more complete.
The fireplace in this modern living area has the black firebox surround, with white marble accents. The marble is more expensive and requires more care than wood, but it is a striking design aspect to the room. The black finish also blends with the dark tones of the furniture and the wood flooring to create a seamless appearance.
While you might associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it's a very flexible and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be poured into place and shaped into any shape, giving the user a variety of design options. This concrete surround was cut to a curved profile. It gives 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 range of colors and textures to match any style. Wooden surrounds can come in any color to complement your hearth pad. They are less heavy and cheaper than the masonry surrounds. Most wooden surrounds can accommodate decorative items for the mantel including lamps and vases.
Some wood surrounds include a faceplate which covers the mantel's top and houses doors for fireplaces. The faceplate can be secured using decorative hinges or fasteners that mimic the look of wrought iron.
It is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of your fireplace when selecting a mantel made of wood. Building codes stipulate minimum clearance distances to stop a fire from spreading into the home. This distance will vary depending on the type of fireplace and can also change from country to country or state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
There are a variety of options for surrounds if you wish to give your fireplace a classic style. Some surrounds are entirely solid oak while others are various materials like stone legs matched with pine or oak mantels. There are also pine or oak fireplace surrounds that are designed to be a simple and affordable alternative.
Many people choose to purchase a pre-made wood fireplace surround as it's an economical way to achieve the look they want without having to hire a carpenter. Some of the pre-made pine fireplace surrounds come in a variety of finishes so that you can match it to your existing decor.
Another style of wood fire surround is one that is made by hand from a high quality oak. It can be stained with in a light oak hue or left untreated so that the natural golden brown of wood can be seen. The fireplace surround can be used with gas or wood fireplaces. It is available in two different styles: flat or arched.
There are many tutorials available online for those who have more experience with DIY home improvement projects. They can help you make your own wooden fireplace surround. One example is this thorough step-by-step guide by H2O Bungalow that teaches you how to construct a rustic inspired wood surround from pine.
The tutorial shows you how to build first the horizontal part and then the vertical pilasters that support the mantel. When the columns or pilasters are completed then you can place your mantel. The tutorial will show how to install the crown molding, which will cover any gaps between the wall's cladding and the wall that surrounds it.
It is crucial to adhere to the local fire code when installing a wooden surround around a fireplace. You should keep the surround at least 6 inches from the edge of the opening. It is also important to use a non-flammable glue to join the decorative molding, and to ensure that it remains in place when the surround is set.