A fireplace is often the centerpiece of a living room, and adding a marble surround can elevate it to a new level of elegance; marble has been used for centuries in buildings and homes, and its timeless beauty never goes out of style.
A marble fireplace surround can add sophistication and luxury to any home decor style, from traditional to modern, and has the added bonus of being durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean.
As an added bonus, marble is a natural stone that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from classic white Carrara to dark Emperador, each type of marble has its own unique character and can create a different mood or ambiance in the room.
In this article, we will take a closer look at how to create an elegant fireplace with a marble surround, and the benefits that this can add to your home and decor.
Why Choose Marble For A Fireplace Surround?
Marble is a stunning stone with its own unique characteristics, features, and benefits.
Here are a few reasons why it’s a great choice for a fireplace surround:
Timeless Beauty
Marble has been used for centuries in buildings and homes, and its beauty never goes out of style. It adds elegance and sophistication to any room.
Wide Range Of Colors And Patterns
Marble comes in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from classic white Carrara to dark Emperador, allowing you to choose the perfect marble to match your home decor and personal style.
Durability
Marble is a durable stone that can withstand heat and daily wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for a fireplace surround.
Easy Maintenance
Marble is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only periodic cleaning with mild soap and water.
Resale Value
Adding a marble fireplace surround can increase the resale value of your home, as it is considered a luxurious and high-end addition.
Elegance And Luxury
One major benefit of adding marble to your home through a fireplace surround is that this is a material associated with elegance and luxury.
The natural veining and unique patterns of marble make it a highly sought-after material, especially for high-end homes and luxury apartments.
By choosing a marble fireplace surround, you can add a touch of sophistication to your living room or bedroom, creating a focal point that will impress your guests.
Elevate The Overall Look And Feel Of Your Room
A marble fireplace surround can elevate the overall look and feel of your room, creating a sense of grandeur and luxury.
Whether you have a traditional or modern decor style, a marble surround can complement any design aesthetic and add a touch of elegance to the space.
It can also enhance the ambiance of the room by reflecting light and creating a warm glow.
Design Considerations For A Marble Fireplace Surround
When designing a marble fireplace surround, there are several considerations to keep in mind. Here are some key factors to consider:
Size And Style
The size of the fireplace and the room it is in will determine the size of the marble surround.
As a rule, you should choose a marble surround that is proportional to the size of the fireplace and room, and this can be determined by working with a professional designer or contractor.
In addition, the style of the marble surround should complement the overall decor of the room, whether it’s traditional, modern, or somewhere in between.
Consider the color and pattern of the marble and how it will blend with other elements in the room.
Making sure that you have the right size and style is an important element of making a marble surround work for your space; this is a material that can easily overpower a room if not chosen carefully, so take your time on this stage, and make sure you are totally happy at every stage.
Texture
Marble can come in different textures, from smooth to rough, polished to honed.
Consider the texture of the marble and how it will affect the look and feel of the room – if you have a style that leans towards a more rustic or natural look, a honed finish may be more appropriate, whereas a polished finish will give a sleek and modern appearance.
Mantel
The mantel is an important part of the fireplace surround design, and can also be made from marble to match the surround.
Consider the size and style of the mantel, as well as any decorative elements that you may want to add, such as corbels or a decorative frieze.
Installation
Proper installation is crucial for a marble fireplace surround, as this is a heavy and delicate material that requires skilled professionals to install.
Make sure you work with a reputable contractor who has experience working with marble and can ensure a flawless installation – we will look at this in more detail shortly.
Customisation Options
Marble is a versatile material that can be customized to fit your specific design preferences. Consider adding inlays or decorative elements to the marble surround, such as ornate carvings or intricate patterns.
You can also choose from a variety of colors and types of marble to create a unique look that reflects your personal style.
Fit With The Rest Of Your Decor
When designing a marble fireplace surround, it’s important to consider how it fits with the rest of your decor.
The fireplace is often the focal point of a room, so you want to ensure that the marble surround complements other design elements in the space.
Consider the color scheme of your room and choose a marble type and color that complements or contrasts with those colors.
You can also add accessories such as candles, vases, or artwork to further enhance the elegant look of the marble fireplace surround.
Installing A Marble Fireplace Surround
As mentioned earlier, proper installation is crucial for a marble fireplace surround.
While a professional is generally recommended, as we will discuss shortly, this is a project that can be undertaken independently if you have the tools, skills, and experience – not to mention the confidence!
If you opt for a DIY approach, here are the basic steps to follow:
Measure the dimensions of the fireplace and determine the size of the marble surround.
Choose the type and color of marble that you want for your surroundings.
Prepare the area by removing any existing surround or mantel. If necessary, reinforce the wall to support the weight of the marble.
Install a metal lath over the surface where the marble will be installed to ensure a strong bond between the marble and the wall.
Apply thin-set mortar to the back of each piece of marble and press it into place on the wall, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Use spacers to ensure even gaps between each piece
Once all the pieces are in place, allow the mortar to dry completely before grouting the gaps between each piece.
Install any decorative elements such as corbels or a mantel if desired.
Seal the marble with a sealant to protect it from stains and damage.
Hiring A Professional
For best results, it is a good idea to hire a professional contractor to install the marble surround.
They will have experience working with marble and know how to properly cut and install the material, and will have the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a flawless installation.
When hiring a professional, be sure to do your research and choose someone who has experience working with marble specifically, as this is a delicate material that requires special care.
Some top tips for hiring the perfect professional include:
Make Sure They Have Experience With Marble
This may sound obvious, but it is important to ensure that any contractor you opt for has experience working with marble specifically, as it requires a different level of expertise than other materials.
Ask for references and photos of previous projects they have completed to ensure they have the necessary skills.
Check Their Credentials
Make sure the contractor you hire is licensed, insured, and bonded. This will protect you in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the installation process.
Get Multiple Quotes It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different contractors. This will allow you to compare prices and services offered, and choose the one that best fits your budget and needs.
Ask About Their Process
Before hiring a contractor, ask them about their installation process. They should be able to explain each step in detail and answer any questions you may have.
It’s important to hire someone who is transparent about their process and willing to communicate with you throughout the project.
What To Consider When Installing A Marble Fireplace Surround
As with any fireplace surround, there are a few key elements that should be considered when installing a marble surround. These include:
Ventilation
One of the most important factors to consider when installing any fireplace surround is proper ventilation. Make sure that the chimney and flue are in good condition, and that the fireplace is properly vented to prevent the buildup of harmful gasses.
Fireplace Size
The size of your fireplace will determine the size of your marble surround. Make sure to measure carefully and choose a size that fits comfortably around the fireplace without overwhelming the room.
Maintaining A Marble Fireplace Surround
To keep your marble fireplace surround looking its best, it is important to regularly clean and maintain it.
Here are some tips for maintaining a marble fireplace surround:
Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface of the marble after each use.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that could scratch or damage the surface of the marble
If you notice any stains or discoloration on the marble, use a mild cleaning solution, specifically designed for marble, to remove them.
Always wipe up any spills or moisture immediately to prevent staining.
Apply a sealant to the marble every few years to protect it from stains and damage.
By following these tips and hiring a professional contractor, you can create an elegant fireplace with a stunning marble surround that will be the centerpiece of your home.
How To Handle Chips And Stains
Despite your best efforts, chips and stains may still occur on your marble fireplace surround.
Here’s how to handle them:
Chips
If you notice a chip in the marble, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Use a marble repair kit or consult with a professional to fill in the chip and restore the surface.
One of the best ways to handle chipped marble is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects on the marble, and be careful when moving furniture around the fireplace.
Stains
If you notice a stubborn stain on your marble fireplace surround, use a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for marble, to remove it.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the surface of the marble. If the stain persists, consult with a professional to determine the best course of action.
Final Thoughts
A marble fireplace surround can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home.
By hiring a licensed, insured, and bonded contractor, getting multiple quotes, and asking about their installation process, you can ensure that your marble surround is installed properly and safely.
When considering ventilation and the size of your fireplace, make sure to measure carefully and choose a size that fits comfortably in the room.
Regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as using caution when handling heavy or sharp objects, can help prevent chips and stains from occurring.
With the proper care and attention, a marble fireplace surround can be a beautiful addition to your home that will last for years to come and will add a real touch of luxury and elegance to any space for a truly stunning focal point.
Hi, I am Stevie Morris. As a qualified electrician, I have installed countless electric fires and worked on projects with all types of fireplaces, including wood burning, bioethanol, and gas installations.
By working hands-on with different brands, you quickly become an expert on the best fireplaces and those you should avoid.
My family also owns the largest online retailer of fire pits and outdoor fireplaces in the UK. Although not part of the family business, I regularly help when needed.
I hope you can benefit from my experience and impartiality, which I have gained from installing fireplaces and seeing the family's fire pit business grow.
