Fireplace Surrounds: The Ugly Real Truth Of Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
It is important 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 styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplaces fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed a certain distance away from the firebox opening for safety reasons. The distance is determined by bioethanol fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace suites surround is a great option to give an inviting and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior but it can also improve the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between various shades, patterns and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are ideal 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 stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could result in an hazard to fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're going with a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire area can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to assist with drafting issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items like vases or even plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a large surround may be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in. A professional can advise you on this.