5 Killer Quora Answers On Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which could otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after 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 fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at an increased price.
You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it won't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you choose to install an open fireplace made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble fireplace is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean 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 a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone fireplaces that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for ethanol fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can offer your clients a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast 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 last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types 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 can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
When installing a new surround it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material as your surround, you'll have to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.