A Productive Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture since it creates a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most popular kind of fireplace stove surround made of wood is oak, which is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone freestanding fireplace surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.

You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink as the ethanol fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to fit your style.

If you choose to install a marble fire place you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. 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 if you choose marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market to use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, Cheap fireplaces consider black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall feature in a traditional living room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be combined with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks beautiful next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher texture to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to store decorative objects like vase or even plants. The mantel design can vary but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.