Don't Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning 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 look of the room regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is important to match the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to add a rustic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.
There are many types of stone that you can use for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides a high level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room 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 fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market to use 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 a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep 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 variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can 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 especially beneficial for fireplacesandstove.Com gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as pots or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a huge surround could take over the room.
It is essential to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.