24-Hours To Improve Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. 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 an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that could otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. wooden fireplaces surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
The pine and Electric fire oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. These are available from several DIY and home stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a wide range 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. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can opt to have a custom-made ethanol fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces are an excellent alternative to open floor plans. They can add style and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between the different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to match your style.
If you decide to install a marble fire place it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a variety of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance and others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the Fireplace Stove opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.