A Productive Rant About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your room, whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room, and it also helps break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is essential to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home since it blends with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.
You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor designs. They add elegance and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace suites has been removed. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the ethanol fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the structure.
You can offer your clients a variety of granite colors for their fireplace electric surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall accent in a traditional living room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases 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 install an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may overwhelm the space.
It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you suggestions on this.