Choosing a Fireplace Surround
The perfect surround can add character to your living area and can be used for warmth or for aesthetics. However, choosing the right fireplace surround that is compliant with code and is safe can be a daunting task.
Fortunately, these custom built surrounds are constructed using non-combustible material that conforms to the National Fire Code. They look stunning in any style of home.
Simple Concrete Surround with Slabs of Marble
A fireplace surround can be an important focal point in rooms, and it can add warmth and charm. It is constructed using a range of materials and be designed to fit different styles of design. Before you decide on a fireplace design it is essential to consider the style and budget of the room.
Marble fireplace surrounds provide a sophisticated look that complements a variety of design styles. They can be paired with rustic woods as well as modern metals to create a unique, contemporary design. Marble is relatively simple to maintain and can withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for a fireplace surround.
Stone is a timeless material for fireplace surrounds and offers a timeless appeal that works in many homes. It can be carved or etched to create a modern look or left unfinished to give it a traditional appearance. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option that can be used to give depth and texture to the interior of a room.
Granite is a very popular option for modern surrounds around fireplaces. It's tough and able to withstand heat well. It's also available in a variety of patterns and colors, making it a great choice to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite is a different, durable material that can be cut and made into a modern fireplace surround.
Installing a concrete enclosure for a fireplace may be a possibility for DIYers. While it may seem daunting, this project can actually be simpler than you think if you plan ahead and work 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 mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.
If you are planning to use tiles as a fireplace surround, you must make sure it's suitable for high temperatures. This information is usually found on the label or ask an employee in a home improvement shop.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround can completely transform the look of a room. It's not only meant to look beautiful, but also serves a practical function that is to shield the wall behind the fireplace from fire damage and also to help reflect heat away from the room. It's available in a variety of materials and can be made to match any style or design.
The right material to use for an inclined frame surround is crucial to create an aesthetic that is purposeful. Concrete is a good choice because it is durable, non-flammable, and is attractive due to its natural texture and color. Concrete is usually poured into a mold, which allows you to create a unique shape for your fireplace surround.
When designing your leaning frame, make sure to add layers. This helps the piece look deliberate and thoughtful rather than being thrown randomly on the wall or on the shelf. Leaning frames can be dangerous If you're planning to display heavy objects like lamps or vases, put a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to stop them from falling or causing damage to surfaces.
If you're using a marble or concrete surround, consider adding an oak board at the bottom to hold it in the right place. It will also help in reducing the weight of the item and prevent it from shifting while you sip a refreshing glass of wine or a cup of coffee in front of your fireplace.
Once you have decided on the material, it is time to construct the actual piece. Draw a line on the wall to indicate the dimensions of your frame. Then with a saw, cut cleats along each mark. Make sure the top cleat is at least 1 foot shorter than the shelf.
Fix the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts are inserted through the backer board, and into a wall stud. The pre-drilling of the screw holes is necessary if needed. Then, temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Attach the mantel to the studs using the lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Be sure that the bolts are long enough to cover 2/3 of the mantel depth plus the thickness of the backer board.
Black Firebox Surround
Fireplace surrounds play a functional and decorative role. They protect walls against heat damage, reflect heat back into the room and can make a fireplace a focal piece in a space. Metal and wood are the most commonly used materials used to construct fireplace surrounds. Metal surrounds are required by building code to guard against nearby combustible substances or to enhance the aesthetics of a fireplace.
This fireplace is a contemporary living space with a black surround and white marble accents. The stone is a more expensive 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 ties together the dark tones of the furniture and wood flooring for a cohesive design.
While you might associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it's a very flexible and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be poured on top and formed into any shape, giving you a wide range of design possibilities. This concrete surround was cut to create a curved design. It creates a sleek and modern look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall and flooring.
Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wood, that is available in a wide variety of textures and colors that fit into any decor. Wooden surrounds are lighter and less expensive than masonry surrounds and they can be finished to match the color of your current hearth pad. Most wooden surrounds can accommodate decorative items for the mantel including lamps and vases.
Certain wood surrounds have an edging that covers the top of the mantel and houses the fireplace doors. This plate can be attached to the mantel using hinges or decorative fasteners that resemble the look of iron.
When selecting a wood mantel or a fireplace surround made of metal It is crucial to take into consideration the height of your chimney. To stop a fire from spreading into your home, building codes stipulate minimum clearances. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace, and may also vary from the country to the country or state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
There are many options available for surrounds if you want to give your fireplace a traditional appearance. Some surrounds are made of solid oak while others are a combination of materials including stone legs matched with pine or oak mantels. You can also find oak or pine fire surrounds designed to be a simple and affordable option.
Many people opt to buy pre-made wood fireplace surrounds since it's an economical way to achieve the look they desire without hiring a carpenter. Certain pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are available in a range of different finishes to blend it with your existing decor.
A hand-crafted wood fire surround made of high-quality oak is also a popular choice. It can be stained to a light oak color or left untreated to allow the natural light golden brown of the wood to shine 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 more experience with DIY home improvement projects, there are a lot of tutorials available online to assist you in creating your own fire surround from wood. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that shows you how to construct a rustic-looking wood surround out of pine.
The tutorial shows how to construct the horizontal pilasters, and then the vertical pilasters that will support the mantel. After the columns or pilasters are built you can put up your mantel. Finally, the tutorial shows you how to add the crown molding which will fill in any gaps between the cladding and the surrounding wall.
It is important to follow the local fire code when you install a wooden surround around the fireplace. It is recommended to keep the surround at least 6 inches away from the edge of the opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround, and ensure that it is held in the proper position.