Will Fireplace Surrounds Never Rule The World
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hold garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. wooden Fireplaces surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at several DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace insert surround is a fantastic way to create an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can choose from a variety of stones for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are highly durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can pick from different shades, patterns, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and affordable option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace suite surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are an excellent addition to open floor plans. They add class and sophistication while bringing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaners available. But, you must test them in a safe area before using them to clean 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 another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is 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 to keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point 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 incorporated into a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to help with problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up 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 steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll have to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.