20 Questions You Must Always ASK ABOUT Fireplace Surrounds Before Buying It
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned out from it.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at several DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it blends with your interior style but also complements it. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, Freestanding Fireplace for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it won't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you decide to go with a marble fire place it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to 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 commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for ethanol fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to an area. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can advise you on this.