10 Tips For Getting The Most Value From Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. But choosing a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit tricky.

Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is essential to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your style of interior design but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

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

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp when the fireplace suites gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a tabletop fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can offer your customers an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of the traditional space.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. You can use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to help with problems with drafting. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.