10 Fireplace Surrounds Meetups You Should Attend
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
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 easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks the wall that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a dense 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 protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. These are available from a number of home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are highly durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal 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 and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the perfect option to match your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
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 stands up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces electric. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the ethanol fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your clients an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces electric.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the fireplace suite opening. If you're using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.