Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room, whether you have an electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
It is important to be in line with 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 that fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are many options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in 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 materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends in with your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.
There are a variety of types of stone that you can use for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can choose between a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces wood. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. marble fireplaces (read more on Impactcybertrust`s official blog) work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select 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 style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the electric fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel tabletop fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items like vases or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is crucial to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.