Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. These are available from several home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace suite surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
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 choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning ethanol fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
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 can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any ethanol fireplace into a stunning feature. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one to match your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a Marble Fireplace; snip.Ly, be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can 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, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a classic look.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items like vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over 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 the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.