10 Quick Tips About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit challenging.
Brick can be used in modern fireplace, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.
There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, wood fireplaces which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace electric clean to prevent any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with 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 look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace (go to website) be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite colors for their fireplace stove surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire space can create a focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to aid in draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look while others are rougher to create a contrast in the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative items like pots or even plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide guidance on this.