The 10 Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.

Brick is one option that can fit into modern, 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 an essential piece of furniture since it creates a focal point to the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's 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 suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace stove surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior but it can also increase the value of your home. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the ideal option to match 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 timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, you should test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in 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 around the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your customers can select from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire area can create a focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

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 can be paired with many different types of decor. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to aid in draft issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled ethanol fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance while others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.