Fireplace Surround Remodel: Ultimate Upgrade 2025
Why Your Fireplace Deserves a Fresh Start
A fireplace surround remodel transforms an outdated focal point into a stunning centerpiece that defines your entire living space. Whether you’re painting brick white for a modern farmhouse look or installing dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone, the right upgrade can completely change how a room feels—and significantly boost your home’s value.
Top Fireplace Surround Remodel Ideas:
- Budget-Friendly – Paint existing brick, add a striking mantel, or install a chic fireplace screen ($200-$1,000)
- Mid-Range – Shiplap walls, natural stone veneer, or statement tile surrounds ($2,000-$5,000)
- Splurge-Worthy – Marble slabs, dimensional panels, or floor-to-ceiling custom designs ($6,000-$10,000+)
- Popular Materials – Natural stone (marble, granite), brick (painted or whitewashed), tile (subway, mosaic), and wood (reclaimed, shiplap)
- Key Considerations – Clearance from combustibles (at least 6″ for wood-burning), cement backerboard for tile, and professional inspection for safety
The average cost for a complete fireplace surround remodel ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on materials and scope. Simple DIY updates like painting can cost as little as a few hundred dollars, while custom stone or marble installations can exceed $10,000.
I’m Joe Gerrior, owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp. For over 34 years, our family-owned business has delivered exceptional masonry services to Massachusetts homeowners. We specialize in custom fireplace surround remodels, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern design to bring your vision to life.
Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction is based in Woburn, MA, and proudly serves Middlesex and Essex County, Massachusetts.
Choosing Your New Look: Materials, Styles, and Costs for Your Fireplace Surround Remodel
Your fireplace is the heart of your home. A fireplace surround remodel is your chance to transform this focal point, but with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Let’s explore the most popular materials, styles, and costs to help you create a fireplace that captures your vision.
Popular Materials: Pros, Cons, and Aesthetics
Choosing the right material is the first step. Each option offers a unique look, feel, and set of practical considerations for your lifestyle and budget.
Natural stone like marble, granite, limestone, and slate is the gold standard for its permanence and luxury. Marble offers stunning patterns, while granite provides exceptional durability. Limestone and ledgestone create a rustic-yet-refined look. Stone is durable, timeless, and heat-resistant, but it’s typically the most expensive option and may require periodic sealing.
Brick brings warmth and character. Traditional red brick is classic, but painted or whitewashed brick offers a fresh, modern farmhouse aesthetic. It’s durable, versatile, and often more affordable than stone. However, unpainted brick can look dated in some homes, and its porous surface can absorb soot.
Tile offers endless customization with various colors, patterns, and textures. Subway tiles provide a clean, contemporary look, while mosaic tiles allow for artistic designs. Porcelain and ceramic can mimic pricier materials affordably. Tile offers unlimited design options and a wide price range, but grout lines require cleaning and intricate patterns can be labor-intensive to install.
Wood brings instant warmth, with reclaimed wood and shiplap being popular for rustic and farmhouse styles. It creates a cozy atmosphere and can be stained or painted. However, combustibility is a critical safety concern. Wood requires strict clearance from the firebox, can be scratched, and is not suitable for direct heat exposure.
For more information on our expert installation of all these materials, visit our masonry services page.
| Material | Cost Range (Approx.) | Durability | Maintenance | Aesthetic Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Stone | High | Very High | Moderate (sealing, specific cleaners) | Luxurious, timeless, neat, natural |
| Tile | Low to Moderate | Moderate | Low (easy to clean, grout may need attention) | Versatile, customizable, modern, artistic |
| Brick | Low to Moderate | High | Moderate (cleaning, can absorb soot) | Classic, rustic, warm, traditional |
| Wood | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate (sealing, prone to scratches/dents) | Warm, cozy, natural, rustic, farmhouse |
Matching Styles to Your Home’s Interior
Your fireplace surround should flow seamlessly with your home’s overall aesthetic.
- Modern spaces favor clean lines, using materials like large-format tiles, concrete, or metal. A simple wood beam mantel can add warmth.
- Rustic and farmhouse styles accept natural textures. Think reclaimed wood, shiplap, and natural stone for a cohesive, earthy ambiance.
- Traditional homes achieve classic elegance with intricately carved wood mantels, luxurious marble, or traditional brick.
- Coastal style uses lighter colors, shiplap, and sometimes blue tile to create a breezy, relaxed feel.
- Floor-to-ceiling designs and integrated feature walls with shelving make a dramatic statement and add functionality.
Budgeting Your Fireplace Surround Remodel Project
A fireplace surround remodel can range from a quick refresh to a major overhaul. Based on internet data, the average cost is $2,000 to $10,000, but this varies widely. Please note, these are average costs based on general internet data and not actual quotes from Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction.
- Budget-friendly options ($200 to $1,000): Small changes make a big impact. Consider painting existing brick, adding a new mantel, or installing a chic fireplace screen.
- Mid-range options ($2,000 to $5,000): This range allows for more significant changes like installing shiplap, natural stone veneer, or statement tile.
- Splurge-worthy options ($6,000 to $10,000+): For a transformative result, consider full marble slabs, dimensional wall panels, or floor-to-ceiling stone or tile installations.
One homeowner reported a comprehensive DIY upgrade for around $1,500 in materials, demonstrating that significant changes are possible on tighter budgets with careful planning.
Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction is based in Woburn, MA, and proudly serves Middlesex and Essex County, Massachusetts.
From Vision to Reality: The Remodel Process & Final Touches
Watching a fireplace transform is an exciting process. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals, understanding the steps of a fireplace surround remodel helps you know what to expect.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Remodeling Process
While every project is unique, the remodel generally follows a reliable path.
- Demolition & Framing: The process begins by carefully removing the old surround and mantel. Then, a new frame is built, establishing the dimensions and ensuring proper clearances for safety.
- Backerboard & Material Application: Next, cement backerboard is installed to create a stable, heat-resistant foundation for tile or stone. Then, the chosen material is applied, bringing the design to life.
- Mantel, Hearth & Built-ins: The mantel is securely installed, followed by an update to the hearth—the non-combustible area in front of the fireplace. If included, built-in shelving or cabinetry is added at this stage.
- Finishing Touches: The project concludes with finishing work like filling nail holes, caulking seams, and painting to create a polished, professional look.
For those considering a DIY approach, this DIY Fireplace Surround and Tutorial offers excellent step-by-step guidance.
Safety First: Key Considerations for Your Project
A beautiful design is meaningless without safety. We always adhere to local building codes and industry best practices.
- Clearance Requirements: Combustible materials like wood must have adequate clearance from the firebox opening—typically at least 6 inches for wood-burning units, per National Fire Safety Commission guidelines. Always verify local codes in your Massachusetts town, whether it’s Woburn, Andover, or Lexington.
- Hearth & Backerboard: The hearth must extend a specific distance from the firebox. For tile or stone, using non-combustible cement backerboard is essential to protect the underlying structure from heat.
- Sealant & Inspection: Use high-temperature sealant near the firebox where regular caulk would fail. For major changes or gas work, a professional inspection is recommended to ensure safety and code compliance. Our team can help steer these complexities through our chimney repair services.
Design Trends and Customization Ideas
The best part of any fireplace surround remodel is making it your own by blending current trends with personal touches.
- Trending Looks: Fluted details, dark colors, and dimensional panels are popular for adding texture and depth. Some designers are even using mixed-media approaches, like leather or metal accents.
- Custom Elements: Built-in benches add cozy seating and storage, while a recessed TV box above the fireplace creates a streamlined look.
- Unique Touches: Floor-to-ceiling designs make a powerful statement. Don’t be afraid to use unique materials, like pretty blue tile for a coastal vibe or porcelain that expertly mimics high-end stone.
We understand a fireplace remodel is a significant investment. At Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction is based in Woburn, MA, and proudly serves Middlesex and Essex County, Massachusetts. For expert fireplace surround remodels and custom masonry solutions, contact us today!
