A Provocative Remark About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the room. The right surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture since it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is important to match the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. wooden fireplaces surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are many options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to create a rustic and warm style to your home. Not only does it blend in with the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a variety of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a tabletop fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for Fireplaces 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.
You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and stone fireplaces (toolkit.ewater.org.au) is able to resist smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items like pots or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.