The 10 Most Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up walls that could otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is crucial to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. wooden fireplaces (Going Here) fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or bioethanol fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to fit your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose a color that complements other elements of design 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 classy look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas ethanol fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of the traditional space.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic style.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as pots or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.
It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide suggestions on this.