Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fire fireplace. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to match any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options for size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers a high level of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. marble fireplaces; orf.ru, are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match to your style.
If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble 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 look. Darker marbles like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces wood that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some freestanding fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can vary 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 a surround only, without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer advice on this.