Fireplace Surround: It s Not As Expensive As You Think
Choosing a Fireplace Surround
If you are using a fireplace to provide aesthetics or warmth, the best surround will make your living space more unique. However, selecting a fireplace surround that meets standards and is safe can be a challenge.
Fortunately, these custom-built surrounds are made of non-combustible materials that adhere to the National Fire Code. They look fantastic in any style of home.
Simple Concrete Surround with Marble Slabs
A fireplace surround is a focal point for rooms, and it can bring warmth and charm. It can be constructed from various materials and designed to suit a variety of design styles. Before choosing a fireplace design it is important to consider the design and budget of the room.
Marble fireplace surrounds give an elegant look that is compatible with many different styles of design. They can be paired with woods that are rustic or modern metals to create a unique, modern design. Marble is fairly easy to maintain and is able to withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplace surrounds.
Stone is a popular material for fireplace surrounds. It provides a timeless look that can be found in a variety of homes. It can be cut and cut to give it a modern style or left untreated for a more traditional feel. Stacked stone veneers are a popular option that can be used to give depth and texture to rooms.
Granite is a popular option for modern surrounds around fireplaces. It's tough and able to be able to withstand heat well. It is available in a variety of designs and colors, which allows you to create various designs. Quartzite is a different, durable material that can be cut and molded to fit a modern fireplace surround.
If you're a DIYer the installation of a concrete fireplace surround could be within your capabilities. Although it might seem like a daunting task but it can be easier than you might think if you prepare and consult with a professional ensure that the structure is sturdy enough.
A professional is also recommended when building a marble fireplace surround, as it requires special attention to avoid damage. A skilled carpenter can help you avoid costly errors.
If you plan to use tile as a fireplace surround, make sure it's rated for high temperatures. You'll find this information on the packaging or ask an employee at a home improvement shop.
Leaning Frame Surround
The fireplace's surround can transform an area. It's not only visually appealing but also serves a practical purpose. It shields the wall behind the fireplace from damage and also reflects heat back into the space. It comes in a variety materials and can be customized to fit any style or design.
The right material is crucial for achieving a well-planned aesthetic. Concrete is an excellent choice due to its durability and non-flammable. It also offers lots of visual appeal thanks to its natural texture and color. Concrete is usually placed into a mold giving you the ability to design a unique shape for your fireplace surround.
Layers are important when creating your leaning frames. This makes the piece appear deliberate and thoughtful instead of being randomly placed on the wall or shelf. Leaning frames can be dangerous, so if you're planning to display heavier objects, such as lamps or vases, place a small piece of rubber drawer liner under the base to keep them from slipping or damaging surfaces.
Consider adding a wooden plank to the bottom of a concrete or a marble surround. This will help to keep it in the right place. It can also reduce the weight and keep the object from moving as you enjoy a cup of coffee or wine in the fireplace.
After you've selected the material you'll use for your leaning frame surround then it's time to begin making the actual piece. First, mark the new wall with the dimensions of the surround and use a sander to cut cleats along each of these points. Make sure that the top cleat of the shelf is at a minimum a foot shorter.
Next, screw the brackets to the wall. Make sure that the bolts go through the backerboard and into the stud. If necessary, pre-drill the screw holes. Then, you can temporarily secure the mantel to the backer board. Fix the mantel using lag bolts (2-4 bolts per stud). Make sure 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 shield walls from damage from heat and also reflect some of the heat into the room and make a fire more of a focal piece in an area. The most commonly used materials for fireplace surrounds include wood and metal. Metal surrounds can be required by the building code in order to protect nearby combustible materials or to enhance the appearance of a fireplace.
The fireplace in this contemporary living space has a black firebox surround with white marble accents. The stone is more expensive and requires more maintenance than wood, however it is a striking design aspect to the room. The black finish also brings to the dark hues of the furniture as well as the wood flooring to create a cohesive appearance.
While you might think of concrete as a material for sidewalks and driveways, it's actually a very versatile and attractive material for fireplace surrounds. It can be shaped into custom shapes and then poured into place, providing nearly limitless designs. This concrete surround was shaped into a curved shape. It creates a sleek and modern look that is in contrast to the darker hues of the brick wall and floor.
Another popular material for fireplace surrounds is wooden, which comes in a wide range of textures and colors that complement any decor scheme. Wooden surrounds are less heavy and more affordable than masonry surrounds and they can be finished to match the color of your current hearth pad. Most wooden surrounds can be used to accommodate decorative items for the mantel including lamps and vases.
Some wood surrounds have a faceplate which covers the top of the mantel and houses doors for fireplaces wood. This plate can be attached with decorative fasteners or hinges that mimic the look of iron.
When selecting a wood mantel or metal fireplace surround It is crucial to take into consideration the height of your chimney. Building codes stipulate minimum clearance distances to prevent the spread of a fire into the home. This distance will vary depending on the type of fireplace, and can vary from the country to the country or state to state.
Simple Wood Surround
If you want your fireplace to have a classic wood fireplace look, there are kinds of surrounds that you can purchase. Certain surrounds are constructed of solid oak, while others incorporate stone legs with oak or pine mantels. There are also oak or pine fire surrounds that are designed to be a cheap and simple alternative.
Many people prefer to purchase pre-made wood fireplace surrounds as it's an affordable way to get the look they desire without hiring carpenters. Certain pre-made fireplace surrounds made from pine are even available in a range of different finishes so that you can make it a part of your existing decor.
Another popular type of wood fire surround is one that is made by hand using a top quality oak. It can be stained with a light oak color or left untreated so that the natural golden brown of wood is visible. This fireplace surround is ideal for wood or gas-burning fires and can be fitted either with an arched or flat opening.
There are a lot of tutorials available online for those who have more experience in DIY home improvement projects. They can help you make your own fireplace surround from wood. One example is this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial from H2O Bungalow that teaches you how to make a rustic inspired wood surround out of pine.
The guide explains how to build the horizontal component of the fireplace surround first, then how to construct the vertical pilasters or columns that support the mantel. After these are built you can put in the mantel itself. The tutorial also will show you how to install the crown molding to be used to fill in any gaps between the cladding and the surrounding wall.
It is crucial to adhere to the local fire code when you install 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 adhesive to secure the decorative molding and make sure that it stays in place after the surround is put in place.