9 . What Your Parents Teach You About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and can break up a wall which would otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much 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 crucial to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of 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.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at a number of DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning 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 space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it will not change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're considering an elegant fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined 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, work with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. 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 water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can offer your customers an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall fireplace accent in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white fireplace. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with simple or stepped designs to give more 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 an enormous surround could take over 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 is safe from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.