10 Tell-Tale Signals You Need To Know Before You Buy 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 really make the space. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace insert surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is important to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are many choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap Fireplaces and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of 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 durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are a great addition to open floor designs. They add elegance and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the various zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the tabletop fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you decide to go with a marble fire place it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or fireplaces crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way 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 as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to aid in draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace insert surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to store decorative items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most come with simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend more than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.