What to surround a fireplace with?

Author: Morgan Durgan  |  Last update: Thursday, July 2, 2026

Here's our top 6 picks for fireplace surround materials from recent projects using a FireRock pre-engineered masonry fireplace.
  • Marble. ...
  • Metal. ...
  • French Limestone. ...
  • Stained Concrete. ...
  • Precast Concrete. ...
  • Natural Stone.

What is the best material to surround a fireplace?

All of these material options are non-combustible and adhere to the National Fire Code.
  1. Brick. Brick is one of the most classic and traditional fireplace surround materials out there. ...
  2. Plaster. ...
  3. Tile. ...
  4. Concrete. ...
  5. Sheet Metal. ...
  6. Stacked Stone. ...
  7. Stone Slab. ...
  8. Cast Stone.

What do you put on walls around a fireplace?

A room with a fireplace has a built-in focal point, but you can enhance this homey feature even more by using it as the base for an eye-catching accent wall. Clad your fireplace accent wall in wood paneling, rustic stone, decorative tiles, paint, wallpaper, or custom finishes.

What can I use to cover my fireplace surround?

What can I cover a brick fireplace with?
  • you can cover a brick fireplace with stone veneer
  • or you can use concrete for a modern look
  • a recent trend I've seen everywhere is to use plaster
  • you can use shiplap or planking for a coastal look

What is best to put over a fireplace?

Items like potted houseplants, colorful vases, and vintage collectibles can easily turn a plain mantel into something special. Be sure to vary the size and scale of the objects to create a balanced display. Bonus: Create easy DIY artwork out of scrap plywood and spray paint.

80 Fireplace Design Ideas

Does a fireplace need a surround?

Most fireplaces need some non-combustible material that surrounds the front of the fireplace. Wood-burning fireplaces also need non-combustible material on the hearth.

How can I make my fireplace look nice?

Set the Mood with Candles

They can be used as a filler if your space is looking too bare; set the mood with soft, warm lighting; fill the space with fresh, fruity or floral aromas; and help create a cosy ambience. If you have an empty fireplace, fill it with varying sized pillar candles and a few lanterns.

What surrounds a fireplace?

A fireplace surround or mantel is the structure that surrounds the opening of a fireplace. It differs from a fireplace suite which also includes the hearth, back panel and fire. When buying a fireplace surround you'll need to consider the fire type.

Is shiplap safe around a fireplace?

Is shiplap safe for a gas fireplace? Shiplap can be safe for a gas fireplace, but you should consult with a fireplace installation pro before proceeding. You need to make sure your project meets building and safety codes since shiplap is made from flammable wood.

How do you enclose a fireplace?

“You can also cover/seal the fireplace opening with brick or drywall if you want to eliminate the fireplace altogether,” says Blaken. You could build a drywall fireplace cover or hire a pro to do it for you. Some drywall fireplace covers act like a plug and can be removed from the opening at will.

What do you put on the sides of a fireplace?

The hearth of your fireplace—also known as the ledge or floor surrounding the firebox—can be an unexpected place to add decor, especially if you don't necessarily utilize your fireplace all that often. To balance out the "big black box" of your fireplace, try leaning similarly sized artwork or mirrors on either side.

What is the wall around a fireplace called?

Surround. Commonly confused with one another, the fireplace surround is an informal name given to the entire assembly of elements: mantel, legs, returns, etc. Ultimately, the surround is what makes up all parts of a fireplace in its entirety.

Do I need special drywall around a fireplace?

If you're wondering whether you can use drywall in a fireplace insert surround, the answer is: No. While drywall is fire resistant and used in fire-rated wall and floor/ceiling assemblies, it is not rated for use in fireplace insert surrounds.

What board to use around a fireplace?

Fire-resistant boards are perfect both as a construction and insulation material and fireboards with pattern can be used as a decorative cover for fireplaces and stoves. They also can act as wall lining, or insulation core in industrial range.

What is the difference between a fireplace mantel and surround?

Fireplace mantels come in two styles: a floating ledge (also referred to as a shelf) or a surround. A floating ledge is suspended above the fireplace while a surround completely frames the fireplace.

What is the best stone to put around a fireplace?

Granite is suitable for gas or wood burning fireplaces. The stone does require regular sealing, but it is relatively low maintenance and easy to care for. You'll find hundreds of unique colors and patterns in granite slabs, sure to fit any design aesthetic.

Is shiplap still in style for fireplace?

Shiplap fireplaces have become a fixture in today's ubiquitous modern farmhouse-style homes. A traditional feature used to add character to new-build interiors, a shiplap accent wall is also an easy and affordable way to update an existing fireplace.

Can you use Hardie board around a fireplace?

Yes, HardieBacker® 1/4" Cement Board is deemed noncombustible when tested to ASTM E 136 and can be used in conjunction with other noncombustible materials around a fireplace.

Why not to use shiplap?

Shiplap is Not Waterproof or Moisture Resistant

The wood planks are usually sealed with paint or stain, but this doesn't fully protect against water. If you need water-resistant material for an area prone to high humidity or dampness, consider using vinyl planks or other moisture-resistant shiplap.

What are the rules for fireplace surrounds?

The National Fire Code dictates that any combustible material (e.g., wood mantel or similar trim) must be at least six inches from the firebox opening. An additional inch of clearance is needed for every 1/8 inch the combustible material or trim protrudes.

What is molding around fireplace called?

The fireplace mantel comes in two major parts: the lower mantel and the optional overmantel. The main parts of a lower mantel include the shelf, legs, header, inner trim, and hearth. The main parts of the overmantel are crown and wall cladding tiles.

Do fireplace surrounds get hot?

Fireplace surrounds are designed to be heat resistant, ensuring they can withstand the temperatures generated by the fireplace without posing a fire hazard. Manufacturers adhere to safety standards and use materials with high temperature resistance to protect both the surround and the surrounding area.

What is the new trend for fireplaces?

A: While there's no one new trending look for fireplaces — it's a timeless home feature, after all — statement surrounds with bold tiling, room-divider fireplaces that help create a sense of separation in an open-concept living space, and fireplaces with organic shapes or curved features are all fireplace trends for ...

What can I put on either side of my fireplace?

Consoles and More. Sleek console tables on either side of the fireplace in a transitional living room function as a place for art and sculpture says designer Jonathan Savage. Benches underneath each console allow for additional seating to be tucked away, but also easily accessible.

How do I jazz up my fireplace?

Upgrading to a new electric fire. Replacing your old fire surround. Painting or staining your fireplace and surround. Rearranging your furniture to create more space.

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