A Good Rant About 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. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used for Marble fireplaces wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall fireplace. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. These are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can pick from a range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood ethanol fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you choose to go with an open fireplace made of marble, you will want to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market to use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall fireplace accent in a traditional living area.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from 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 looks beautiful next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic style.
A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as pots or even plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as 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 further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can provide suggestions on this.