Wisdom On Fireplace Surrounds From A Five-Year-Old
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick can be used in modern fireplace, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might 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 hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that suit any style from modern to traditional. There are a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These are available from several DIY and home stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to add a rustic and warm style to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style, but it can also increase the value of your home. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are many kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of 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 durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces wood work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, you should test them first in a private area prior to 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 option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design 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 spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on one wall in a traditional room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative objects like vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.