Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the room. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is one option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace electric surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall which might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, 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 range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and Modern Fireplace [health-Lists.com] swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from several DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will create an original design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you choose to install a fireplace that is 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 combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
You can offer your clients an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. 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 room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel tabletop fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in the room. The kind of steel you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll have to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.