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Today's fireplace surrounds remain elegant, but have been made more affordable and appropriate to modern home's needs. Obtaining a surround that suits your fireplace needs is a piece of cake. Keep in mind that your surround needs take precedence over getting the best looking surround.

Fireplace surrounds are available in a wide variety of styles to best match you house. Most know the conventional ornamental surround styles. You may even be able to get bona fide antique surrounds, although they may be more expensive. There are also modern style surrounds, that put more emphasis on shapes and elegant wood finishes.

Pay attention to the kinds of building materials used for these fireplace surrounds. Generally, wood costs less and has more elaborate decorations. In comparison, stone and marble are stronger, and contemporary methods can make it resemble wood. Metal is the most ornate, and is effective at absorbing heat. But metal is also a known heat conductor, so using it comes with a few precautions. You can also buy metal surrounds covered with wood or marble.

When shopping for fireplace mantel surrounds, you should find one that's tough enough for carrying medium weight things. You need a mantel that's tough enough to hold all the holiday decorations you want. You also need to take care of your mantel as an investment. Take care to clean and maintain it for the rest of the year. Refrain from putting heavy items that may leave markings after. Avoid putting glasses on it too, lest it leave watermarks on it

Measuring fireplace surrounds has to be done impeccably to keep from having to redo it or getting them in a wrong size. Remember to follow safety regulations, and sometimes state laws dictate fireplace use. You have to measure not only the size of the fireplace, but room between fireplace and ceiling, and the area the fireplace heat emanates to. Best to seek professional help if you're not sure you can do these yourself.

If your house doesn't have a fireplace, think about buying a faux electric fireplace. They are able to meet the functions of a real fireplace, but they're more useful and accommodating. They can be carried to any place with a plug-in socket, to meet your needs pretty much anywhere.