Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into contemporary-, 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 surround can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to match the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as 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 an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These are available from many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace insert's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for Stone Fireplaces household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles 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.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select 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 look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. It is also necessary to clean the marble frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. 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 if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their freestanding fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also install the surround alone, without mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you are using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.