Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have an electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it provides a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that 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 add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your house faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces shop. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant 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 and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace suites into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it won't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the ethanol fire goes out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them first in a private area prior to 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 economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall feature in a traditional living room.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent 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 white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for many centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace insert surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in a surround only, without the mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide guidance on this.