5 Laws That ll Help The Fireplace Surrounds Industry
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options for size and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of freestanding fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add 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 show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between a variety of shades, patterns and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces wooden. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the electric fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of 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 rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. But, you must test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black 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.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you choose will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.