10 Facts About Fireplace Surrounds That Make You Feel Instantly A Good Mood
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace electric surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style from modern to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping 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 often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to add an inviting and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend into your style of interior design and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stones for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide selection of patterns, colors 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 an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication 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 shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's 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.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can blend with a variety of 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 must be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for many centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces wooden that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install a surround only, without the mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration 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 an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.