The 10 Scariest Things 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. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden fireplaces surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to match the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase 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 have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are highly durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and Fireplace suite abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the stone fireplace stove surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a bioethanol fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates 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 perfect match for your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other elements of design 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 look. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace (click through the next document) be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall accent in a traditional living room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can blend with a variety of designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.