13 Things About Fireplace Surrounds You May Never Have Known
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up a wall fireplace which would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace electric can help you make your home sell faster and at a greater price.
You can pick from a wide range of stones for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble ethanol fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.
If you're going with a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other elements of design 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 appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a safe area before using them to clean 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 create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of the traditional space.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures last for many centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround can be used to help with problems with drafting. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel that you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.