5 Killer Quora Answers To Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.

Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks walls that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

It is crucial to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available from several DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to create an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any buildup that could lead to an hazard to bioethanol fire or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the right one that will suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. It is available in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites can endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel surround for your tabletop fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a classic look.

A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.