A Provocative Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit difficult.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, since it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is 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 match any style from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at a number of home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your home area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of shades, patterns and textures to create an original look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, Marble fireplaces for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you decide to go with a marble ethonal fire place you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and modern Fireplace durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making 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 remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than 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 will need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.