10 Undisputed Reasons People Hate Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall fireplace which would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that match any style from contemporary to traditional. There are many options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it blends with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace inserts surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. marble fireplaces electric [a cool way to improve] work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you decide to go with a marble fire place, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, you should test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed 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. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to help with drafting issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance and others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel that you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items like vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the freestanding fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.