Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have an electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at several DIY and home stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. 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 fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your style of interior design and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace electric could help you sell your home faster and for an increased price.
You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone 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 lead to a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match for your style.
If you choose to install an open fireplace made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace inserts surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.