Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden fireplaces surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold online by 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. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create a rustic and warm style to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at an increased 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 extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match for your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to install a fireplace in marble 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 important to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water stains. Fortunately, there are special 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. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall accent in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. It comes in a variety of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, gray and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in a room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate 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 the area you live in. A professional can offer suggestions on this.