Don t Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplaces fireplace. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into 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 an important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room, and it also helps break up walls that would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A stone ethanol fireplace surround is a great way to add an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for more money.
There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of beauty and durability that is worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or electric fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the ethanol fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor 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 classic appearance.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look while others are rougher to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative items like pots or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also install a surround only, without mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material as your surround, then you'll need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.