Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it provides a focal point to the room, and it also helps break up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang 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 can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern fireplace. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it blends with your style, but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable options for a ethanol fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace suite on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning 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 work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces shop. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise 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. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety 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 be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to endure a lot of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces shop.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in a surround only, without a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge 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 not further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.