10 Meetups About Fireplace Surrounds You Should Attend
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. The right surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up a wall that may otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
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 the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can choose from a range of stones 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. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different shades, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that 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 can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.
If you choose to install an open fireplace made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace made of marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural 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. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into a variety of design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, marble fireplace however it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone 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 provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others are rougher 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 chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, Fireplace Inserts which can be used to hold decorative items like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.