Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick can be used 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 is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to match any style from modern to traditional. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set to the
wall fires flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be located a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and 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 affordable option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful alternative to open floor plans. They add class and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the different zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it doesn't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the right one 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 great with neutral tones and can be combined 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, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for
fireplaces shop. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can blend with various designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A
fireplace suite surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled
fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide guidance on this.