24 Hours For Improving Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. wooden fireplaces fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with 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. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at several home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should 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 regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to add a rustic and warm 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 fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.
You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or bioethanol fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.
If you're going with a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose 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 an elegant style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
Your customers can pick from a variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into many design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and can withstand smoke from 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 that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a classic look.
A metal surround can also be used to help with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces wood.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm 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 a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.