Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks the wall that could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is important to match the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace suites surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood cheap fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to match your style.
If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in a traditional room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue white fireplace and grey. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing ethanol fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional appearance.
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 the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel is different but the majority of them have a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the tabletop fireplace and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you're using a combustible product for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.