10 Tell-Tale Signs You Need To Find A New Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap fireplaces and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to create an original look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after 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.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a classic look.
A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace suites surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others are rougher to create a contrast in a room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll have to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.