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 fireplaces or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as an accent piece for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the Wall Fires. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, electric fires regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It not only blends in with the style of your interior, Marble fireplace but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to fit your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before 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 a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance 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 several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to help with drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over 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 extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.