Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have an electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from a number of home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers such as 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 safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your house faster and at more money.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace inserts's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone fireplaces, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces shop work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to match your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace - Read This method -, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You will also need to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create the perfect focal point for one wall in an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with various designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some 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 room. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.