20 Things You Should To Ask About Fireplace Surrounds Before Purchasing It
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a dense solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both of these are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your house faster and at a higher price.
You can choose from a wide range of stone fireplaces options for your fireplace suites's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from a variety of shades, patterns and textures to create an original style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a ethanol fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it won't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're considering a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the ethanol fire free of the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace suite surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke 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 is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to bring more contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.