Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the festive season is over.
It is essential 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 variety of styles and finishes to suit any style from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be located some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to create a rustic and warm style to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces shop (please click the next document) make a wonderful alternative to open floor designs. They can add style and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the ideal option to fit your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches 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 appearance. 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 marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white fireplace swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be combined with a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces wooden that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative objects like vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for 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 is not further than the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.