Table Of Contents

How to Choose a Wood Fireplace Package: Surround, Insert and Hearth

A wood fireplace package usually combines a wooden surround, cast iron insert and hearth. Buying these parts together makes it easier to choose components that fit and look right as a complete fireplace. Here are the main things to consider.

Choose the Wooden Surround

The surround frames the fireplace and has a big effect on its overall appearance. Our wooden surrounds are handmade from solid oak or pine rather than MDF. Both can suit traditional and modern homes, but they have different characteristics.

Oak Fireplace Surrounds

Oak has a strong natural grain and a traditional appearance. It is a good choice if you want the timber to remain visible. As oak is a natural material, its grain and colour will vary slightly.

Pine Fireplace Surrounds

Pine generally has a lighter appearance and offers more flexibility over the final finish. Depending on how it is supplied, a pine surround can be waxed, stained or painted to suit your room. You can also browse our wooden fire surrounds separately if you already have an insert or fireplace opening.

Choose the Surround Size

The fireplace should suit the size of the room and chimney breast. A wider or more detailed surround can work well in a large living room or dining room. A smaller space may suit a simpler design.

Check:

  • The width of the chimney breast
  • The height and width of the fireplace opening
  • The depth of the opening
  • The available wall space
  • The overall fireplace dimensions

Marking the measurements on the wall with masking tape can help you picture the finished size.

Choose an Arched or Tiled Insert

The cast iron insert sits in the centre of the wooden surround. Most traditional packages use either an arched or tiled design.

Arched Inserts

An arched insert has a curved fire opening and a classic Victorian appearance. Some designs are simple, while others include more decorative cast iron detailing. They are normally available in black or highlighted finishes.

Tiled Inserts

A tiled insert has decorative tile panels on either side of the fire opening. The tiles can introduce colour and pattern, with options ranging from traditional floral designs to simpler styles.
Consider how the tiles will look alongside the wood, hearth, flooring and wall colour.

Choose the Hearth

The hearth sits underneath the fireplace and completes its appearance. Black hearths work particularly well with wooden surrounds because they connect visually with the cast iron insert.
Common options include:

  • Polished black granite
  • Slate
  • Traditional tiled hearths

Polished granite has a smooth and slightly reflective finish. Slate has a softer, more natural appearance, while tiled hearths can add further colour and traditional detail. The hearth must also be suitable for the chosen fuel type. Solid fuel fireplaces require a hearth designed to withstand higher temperatures.

Choose the Fuel Option

Depending on the fireplace, options may include solid fuel, gas, electric or bioethanol. The right choice will depend on your property and whether it has a suitable chimney or flue.
Speak to a qualified installer to confirm:

  • Whether the chimney or flue is suitable
  • Which fuel types can be used
  • Whether ventilation is required
  • Whether the fireplace opening needs any work

Looking After the Wooden Surround

The correct care will depend on whether the timber is waxed, oiled or painted. You can find more advice in our guide to caring for a wooden fire surround.

Find the Right Wood Fireplace

Once you have chosen your preferred surround, insert, hearth and fuel type, browse our complete range of wood fireplace packages. You are also welcome to visit our Heanor showroom or contact us for help with sizes, finishes or product compatibility.

About the Author
Mark Adams
As Managing Director (Anybody who asks gets the same response, "I sell fireplaces"). I am still found in the warehouse and in the showroom with a hands on approach.
I started Cast fireplaces in 2003, after working in the trade for numerous years and spotting an opportunity to sell fireplaces and stoves online. I left a comfortable, stable job and started up my own. I like the simple things in life, good food, walks out with the dogs and holidaying in Cyprus.
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