Don t Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric fire or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't 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 can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of finishes and styles to complement any decor Marble Fireplaces from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for ethonal fire hazards specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the ethonal fire is out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the right one to match your style.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You'll also have to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on 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 a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.
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 designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very 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 breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic look.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond 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 will need to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can help you on this.