How To Explain Fireplace Surrounds To Your Grandparents
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at 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 the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone tabletop fireplace surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. In fact, some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles 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 become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble fireplace cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to 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 natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the area around the bioethanol fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create the perfect focal point for one wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from 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. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for many centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.