Expert Advice On Fireplace Surrounds From The Age Of Five

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.

Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture since it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is crucial to match the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.

You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace suites into a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. marble fireplace fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with 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 style. Darker marbles like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to go with a fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great choice for cheap fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be used to aid in problems with drafting. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm 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 not beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.