10 Tell-Tale Signs You Need To Look For A New Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplaces fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture as it provides a focal point to the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace insert. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are highly durable and 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, however it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable 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 it requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to help with 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 using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to a room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will have to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can give you suggestions on this.