5 Killer Quora Questions On Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both of these are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It can increase the value of your house, as it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are highly durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from different patterns, colors and textures to create an original style for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create an original design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and inexpensive option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or bioethanol fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're considering a fireplace made of marble you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. white fireplace marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for many 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 styles of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel that you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might take over the room.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide guidance on this.