Oak and pine are both popular choices for wooden fireplace surrounds. Both are solid natural timbers, but they have different colours, grains and finishes. Your choice will normally depend on the look you prefer, whether you plan to paint the surround and your budget. You can view both options in our collection of wooden fireplace surrounds.
Oak Fireplace Surrounds
Oak has a strong natural grain and a warm, traditional appearance. It is a hardwood, making it denser and more resistant to small knocks than pine. Our oak surrounds are made from solid timber and are normally finished with oil to bring out the natural colour and grain.
Oak is a good choice if you want:
Oak surrounds usually cost more than pine, but many customers choose oak for its natural character and long-lasting finish.
Pine Fireplace Surrounds
Pine has a lighter colour and a softer grain. It is generally more affordable than oak and can be waxed, stained or painted. This makes pine a flexible choice for both traditional and modern rooms. Our pine surrounds are made from solid timber rather than MDF. They can be supplied unfinished or hand-finished with stain and wax.
Pine is a good choice if you want:
Pine is softer than oak and may mark more easily, but a well-maintained pine surround can still last for many years.
Which Is Best for Painting?
Pine is normally the better choice if you plan to paint your fireplace surround. An unfinished pine surround can be primed and painted to match your walls, doors or skirting boards. Read our guide on painting oak and pine fire surrounds before choosing your finish.
Which Is More Affordable?
Pine fireplace surrounds are generally less expensive than oak. They provide the appearance and character of solid timber at a lower price, while also giving you more flexibility over the final finish. Oak costs more because it is a denser hardwood and is more expensive to source and manufacture.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose oak if you want a natural finish with a stronger grain and a more substantial appearance. Choose pine if you want a more affordable surround that can easily be waxed, stained or painted. Neither timber is better for every home. The right choice depends on the style of your room, the finish you prefer and your budget. Both oak and pine surrounds can also be combined with a cast iron insert and hearth as part of one of our wood fireplace packages.
Caring for Oak and Pine Surrounds
Oak and pine fireplace surrounds should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaning products, strong household sprays or too much water. Waxed pine may need another light coat of wax when the surface begins to look dry. Oiled oak can be refreshed with a compatible finishing oil.
For full maintenance advice, read our guide on how to care for your wooden fire surround.
Advice From Mark Adams
Mark Adams, Director of Cast Fireplaces, has over 30 years of experience supplying fireplaces and solid wood fire surrounds. Mark recommends deciding how you want the finished surround to look before choosing the timber. Oak is usually the best choice when you want to keep a strong natural grain visible. Pine offers more flexibility when you want to paint, stain or change the colour of the surround.
Browse our complete range of solid oak and pine fireplace surrounds or contact our team for help choosing the right design.
Phone
01773 718718
Email
sales@castfireplaces.co.uk