10 Undisputed Reasons People Hate Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.
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 tight budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall fireplace. Others 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 hard, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to 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 assist you in selling your home faster and for an increased price.
There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create an original look for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and ethanol fires; medsoft.su, colors, so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market to use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. 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 space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A tabletop fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel that you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative objects like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you're using a combustible material as your surround then you will need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.