10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Fireplace Surrounds
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the room. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. 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. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends into your style of interior design and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can choose between a variety of shades, patterns, and textures to create an original look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces are an excellent addition to open floor designs. They add class and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between the various zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.
If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda click here blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.