Many people may not know what a fireplace surround is. This is the area that surrounds the exterior of the firebox itself. The mantel, the firebox walls and even the trim of the fireplace all form the fireplace surround. It is possible to get some DIY fireplace surrounds that you can install all by yourself. The fireplace is the most important part of your living room and the area surrounding the fireplace adds on to its aesthetic appeal.
DIY fireplace surrounds come in a variety of materials, ranging from wood, stone and even metal. Wood is the most common especially if you have hard wood floors since the fireplace surround will fit seamlessly with the rest of the room. The surround can be further enhanced through painting or adding decorative mirrors, marble, steel etc. The design can be as varied and vast as your imagination can be.
Once you have installed your fireplace surround, you will want to make sure that the fire, when lit, is contained within the firebox and will not ignite the surround and cause a fire. The only way you can do this is to install fireplace doors to contain the flames within the firebox. There are a number of designs for fireplace doors and these too come in various materials. Most people prefer cast iron or wrought iron doors but you can also get these in aluminum, steel or glass. The doors are designed in such a way that they allow the warmth to seep into the room without allowing the flames to get out.
Being the central attraction of your living room, you should ensure that your fireplace and mantel are attractive and the surround complements them. Your home will have a warm and inviting atmosphere if you carefully design and plan these fixtures.