Posts Tagged ‘Fireplace Surround’

A fireplace surround is the entire portion surrounding the opening to the firebox, as visible from the front of the fireplace. A fireplace surround generally replaces a fireplace mantel as well as the side jambs. A fireplace surround is typically an entire piece that takes the place of individual fireplace components, such as jambs, hearth and mantelpiece.

Fireplace surrounds are made from all kinds of materials, from wood to plaster and all types of natural stones. Some of the most beautiful fireplace surrounds I’ve seen were fashioned out of natural stone blocks by skilled masons.

Whether you want an ornate carved fireplace surround, something simple and colonial in style, a rustic stone or a highly polished natural stone surround, I think the nicest fireplace surround are made from natural wood or stone.

Limestone surrounds are one of a kind. Traditionally, the highly carved surrounds depicting angels, scrolls and all sorts of embellishments were made of limestone. Limestone surrounds are exquisitely beautiful pieces of art that will add elegance to any fireplace setting.

For a more stylish and contemporary looking fireplace surround, you may wish to incorporate some polished marble. Polished marble is a beautiful addition to any living or sitting room fireplace with modern or classic décor.

One of the more unique fireplace surrounds I’ve seen was fashioned out of slate. This naturally dark stone had a very striking effect and meshed quite well with the vibrant colors of the great hall in which it was situated.

Many people think that natural stone fireplace surrounds are not within their reach, financially, but there are many innovations in the stone cutting and fireplace manufacturing industry that have made natural stone fireplace surrounds much more affordable than they had been previously.

Today, there are many natural stone companies that offer various pre-cut stone pieces that will fit together to make beautiful natural stone surrounds. By combining pre-cut pieces with some custom stone work, it is possible to spend little more than a regular brick fireplace would cost, and have a beautiful limestone fireplace surround to show for your troubles.

Another advantage to using natural stone veneer pieces is that the overall space from the wall will be less than when carving a surround out of one massive piece of stone. Also, the overall weight will be much much lower than that of a solid natural stone fireplace.

You can go online and download exact patterns for each of the pre-cut or stone veneer pieces that are available. Once you have decided on the layout that you like, simply order the pieces online or by phone.

When the limestone veneer pieces arrive they can be put together using various techniques, all of which are quite simple for anyone handy with construction work. The joints between the pieces can be filled with mortar or caulking. It is recommended that mortar is used, however, the caulking option is perfect for earthquake zones.

For more information on this type of natural stone fireplace surrounds, take a look at the ideas, information and templates found at the American Limestone Company. This website is located at http://americanlimestone.com .

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