How To Explain Fireplace Surrounds To Your Grandparents

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace electric can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is important to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to suit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most popular type of freestanding fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.

There are many kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning 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 instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.

One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market to use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the bioethanol fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white fireplace swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials like wood to create a more 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 the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance and others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in a room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for marble fireplace your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, then you'll have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can offer advice on this.