Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety of choices for design and modern Fireplace size. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a dense solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend 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 fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone fireplaces. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas cheap fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it won't change color or warp when the freestanding fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a variety of granite colors 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 extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of a traditional room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.