The 10 Most Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget since 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 breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it 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 important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood fireplaces for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic style to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for more money.
There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces wooden. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning feature. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern fireplace to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble fireplace is impervious to heat, which means it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match to your style.
If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements 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, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market to use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces wooden. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, but it's important to know 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 is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative objects like pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible product for your surround, you'll have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.