10 Quick Tips About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have an electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are many options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is to the wall fires flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned out from it.

The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give a warm and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend into your style of interior design but it can also boost the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between different shades, patterns and textures to create an original look for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces shop. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble fireplaces looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall fireplace in an old-fashioned room.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can blend with many styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.

Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but most have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may 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 is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.