A Provocative Rant About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up a wall which would otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is important to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to fit any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and fireplace Electric swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These are available from several home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it blends with your style, but also matches it. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces wooden. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for fireplace stove instance is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor plans. They add class and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. 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 some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some Fireplace Stove surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as pots or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration 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 does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.