Choosing a Fireplace Surround
If you're using fireplaces for aesthetics or warmth, the best surround will give your living space a unique. But choosing a fireplace surround that complies with code and is safe can be a difficult task.
These custom-built surrounds are built from non-combustible material that adheres to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any home style.
Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs
A fireplace surround can be a focal point within a room and it can add warmth and charm. It can be crafted with a range of materials and be designed to match different design styles. When choosing a fireplace style it is important to think about the style and the budget of the space.
Marble fireplace surrounds are a sophisticated option that can be paired with a broad variety of styles. They can be combined with rustic woods as well as modern metals to create an unique, contemporary look. Marble is fairly easy to maintain and is able to withstand high temperatures, which makes it a perfect material for fireplace surrounds.
Stone is a classic material for fireplace surrounds. It offers a timeless appeal that is suitable for many homes. It can be carved or etched to create an updated look, or left untouched to give it a traditional look. Stacked stone veneers may also be used to add texture and depth to a room.
Granite is a very popular material for modern fireplace surrounds because it is durable and able to heat extremely well. It also comes in a variety of patterns and colors making it a great choice to create a variety of design styles. Quartzite can also be made into a shape and molded to fit an upscale surround.
If you're a DIYer making a fireplace surround made of concrete may be within your abilities. This project may seem daunting, but it can be much simpler than you think if you work with an expert and plan ahead.
A professional is also recommended when building a marble fireplace surround, as it requires special attention to avoid damage. A carpenter who has experience can help you to avoid costly mistakes.
If you are planning to use tile as an interior fireplace surround, be sure that it is rated for high temperatures. This information is usually found on the label or you can ask an employee in a home improvement shop.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace surround is a vital design element that can transform the entire room. It is not only aesthetically appealing but also serves a practical function. It shields the wall surrounding the fireplace from damage and reflects heat back into the space. It's available in various materials and can be customized to fit any style or decor.
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's highly durable, nonflammable and has lots of visual appeal with its natural texture and color. It is typically poured in molds to allow you to choose the possibility of making an original shape.
When designing your leaning frame, be sure to include layers. This helps the piece look curated and intentional rather than just randomly placed on the wall or on the shelf. Leaning frames can be dangerous and should be avoided if you plan to display heavy objects like vases or lamps, place a small piece of drawer liner made of rubber under the base to prevent them from sliding or damaging surfaces.
If you're using a marble or concrete surround, consider adding a wooden board on the bottom to help keep it in position. It will also help in reducing the weight of the object and prevent it from moving while you enjoy a good glass of wine or coffee on your mantel.
After you've decided on the material, it's time to construct the actual piece. Begin by marking the new wall with the dimensions of your frame and use a saw to cut cleats at each of these marks. Make sure the top cleat is at least a foot shorter than the shelf.
Fix the brackets to the wall. Make sure the bolts are inserted through the backer board and then into the wall stud. Making the screw holes in advance is necessary if needed. Then you can temporarily clamp the mantel on the backer board. Fix the mantel to studs with the 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 as a decorative and functional purpose. They protect walls against heat damage and also reflect some of the heat back into the room and can make a fire more of the focal point of a space. The most commonly used materials for fireplace surrounds include wood and steel. Metal surrounds may be required by building codes to guard the surrounding areas from combustibles or simply to enhance the look of a fireplace, making it appear more complete.
The fireplace in this contemporary living space has an all-black firebox with white marble accents. The stone is more expensive and requires more care than wood, yet it is a striking design element to the room. The black finish also ties to the dark hues of the furniture as well as the wood flooring to create a cohesive appearance.
While you may associate concrete with sidewalks and driveways, it's an extremely versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be shaped into custom shapes and then poured in place, allowing for virtually unlimited design options. This concrete surround was cut to create a curved design. It has a sleek and modern look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall and flooring.
Wood is another popular material used for fireplace surrounds. It comes in a variety of textures and colors that can be incorporated into any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are lighter and more affordable than brick surrounds and can be made to match the color of your current hearth pad. The majority of wooden surrounds are designed to accommodate 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. This plate can be affixed with decorative hinges or fasteners that replicate the appearance of the look of wrought iron.
When choosing a wood mantel or metal fireplace surround It is essential to take into consideration the height of your chimney. To prevent a fire spreading into your home, building codes stipulate minimum clearances. The distance will differ based on the type of fireplace, and can also change from country to country or from state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
There are many options for surrounds to give your fireplace a traditional appearance. Some surrounds are made of solid oak, while others combine stone legs with oak or pine mantels. You can also choose from pine or oak fire surrounds which are designed to be a cost-effective and easy choice.
A lot of people choose to purchase a pre-made wooden fireplace surround since it's an inexpensive way to get the style they desire without the expense of the services of carpenters. Some pre-made wood surrounds are available with a variety of finishes that allow you to match them to your existing decor.
Another style of wood fire surround is one that is made by hand from high-quality oak. It can be stained with the light oak color or left untreated, allowing the natural light golden brown of the wood to show through. This fireplace surround is suitable for wood or gas burning fireplaces wood and can be installed either with a flat or arched opening.
There are many tutorials available online for those with more experience with DIY home improvement projects. They can help you make your own fireplace surround from wood. One example is this complete step-by-step guide by H2O Bungalow that teaches you how to construct an authentic wood surround using pine.
The tutorial explains how to build the horizontal part of the fireplace surround first, and then how to construct the vertical pilasters or columns that support the mantel. Once these are complete you can put in the mantel. The tutorial also shows you how to attach the crown molding to fill in any gaps between the cladding and surrounding wall.
Since a wooden fireplace surround is made of combustible materials it is crucial that you follow the local fire code and keep it at least 6 inches away from the edge of the chimney opening. Use a non-flammable glue attach the decorative molding to the surround, and ensure that it remains in the proper position.