24-Hours To Improve Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit difficult.
Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it creates an accent piece for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall fireplace.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a dense, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of freestanding fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is important to remember that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into your style of interior design but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your home faster and for an increased price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle 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 keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health problem.
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 an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to fit your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles such as the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also important to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can blend with a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace suite and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike 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 is the key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works 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 for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to aid in problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have simple or stepped design that adds dimension 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 for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.