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 fires fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, 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 selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for ethanol fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it blends with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One drawback of a 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. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.
If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of 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, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your clients an array of granite color options for their fireplace inserts surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace 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 is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled cheap fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items like vases or even plants. The mantel design can vary but most have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.