How To Solve Issues Related To Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option 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 since it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It not only blends into your interior design style, but it can also boost the value of your home. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your style.

If you're going with a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a safe area before 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 natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the ethanol fire free of the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire space can create a focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can blend with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic look.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space 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 different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll have to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can offer guidance on this.