10 Meetups About Fireplace Surrounds You Should Attend
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They are available from many DIY and home stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on codes and regulations for your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning feature. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace insert heats up. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the right one to match your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace; check,, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also important to clean the marble frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the ethonal fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in a traditional room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, gray and white. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The type of steel that you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.