20 Questions You Should Always ASK ABOUT Fireplace Surrounds Prior To Purchasing Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the room. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up the wall that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any style from modern to traditional. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall fires, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. These are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by the clearance for ethonal fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are many kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in 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 style. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a safe area before using them to clean 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 natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces wood.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your space.

Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.