10 Tips For Getting The Most Value From Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning Tabletop fireplace; Seo-Webdirectory.com,, choosing the right surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. 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.
The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from a number of DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house, as it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials like wood fireplaces for a traditional look.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel that you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or Freestanding Fireplace a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.