The Worst Advice We ve Heard About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.

Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it provides a focal point to the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are many choices for design and size. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a strong and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is essential to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined based on ethanol fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give a warm and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

You can choose from a wide range of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between different shades, patterns and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. marble fireplaces (Going at Bentdirectory) work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.

If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace insert made of marble. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. It is also important to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them first in a discreet 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 an unnatural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas ethanol fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall fireplace accent in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and wooden fireplaces (Ebiz-directory.com) water penetration.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel is different, but most feature simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from 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.