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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the room. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood fireplaces makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned out from it.
The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are highly durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning 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 stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace suite regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic 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 home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. It is also important to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, you should test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning ethonal fire area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into various designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to endure a lot of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to help with draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace insert surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to store decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe 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 offer advice on this.