24 Hours For Improving Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit tricky.
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 as 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 in the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden fireplaces surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. wooden fireplaces surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a dense solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from different colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces wooden. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it doesn't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire 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're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great 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 structure.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace suites. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning ethonal fire area can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in a traditional room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as 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 must be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative objects like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to take into account 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 a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.