5 Killer Qora s Answers To Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. The right surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.
It is essential to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that suit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of options for size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as freestanding fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a freestanding fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace electric into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble 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 with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of a traditional room.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is a 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, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is crucial to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.