The 10 Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace electric surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood fireplace are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at several home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home faster and for a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stones for your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning feature. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes 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 a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaners available. But, you must test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.
Your customers can pick from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option 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 wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. 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 a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to aid in problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm 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 extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible product for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.