10 Quick Tips About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a great option that can fit 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 wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up the wall that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the festive season has ended.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers a high level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces electric. They can withstand high temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a ethanol fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble Cheap fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire space can create the perfect focal point for a single wall fireplace in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative items like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no a mantel. This option is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.