11 Strategies To Refresh Your Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
It is essential to match the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. For instance, some freestanding fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned away from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace electric surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a solid and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to 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 on codes and regulations for your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.
There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between various shades, patterns, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood Fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and 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 concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it doesn't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles such as the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to clean it 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 private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on one wall fires in an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern fireplace style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces wood that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.