Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fireplaces or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. But finding a surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options in terms of size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace suites surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It not only blends in with your style of interior design and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your home more quickly and at an increased price.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, wooden Fireplaces which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.
If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements 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, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace suites in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water 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. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to help with drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme 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 come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.