A Productive Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick is one option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks walls that would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace inserts surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They are available from many home and tabletop Fireplace DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to give an inviting and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace suites. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace electric. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create the perfect focal point for the wall of a traditional room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures last for many centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic look.

A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as pots or even plants. The style of the mantel is different, Marble fireplaces but most feature simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.