The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available at several DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.

It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.

There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers a high level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, White Fireplace for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a freestanding fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble ethanol fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the right one to match your style.

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 popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create 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 surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace suite that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces electric that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.