Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is important to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to match any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set to the Wall Fires flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it blends with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home faster and for more money.
You can choose from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between different shades, patterns and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace electric surround made from natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces electric are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in 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 style. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the area around the ethonal fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of a traditional room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white fireplace and blue. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to aid in drafting issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
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 is different however, most have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may 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 further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround, you'll need to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.