Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have electric fire or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit challenging.

Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into 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 serves as a focal point for the room, and it also helps break up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they 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 range of styles and finishes that fit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style, but it can also improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.

You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest quality of beauty and durability that is worth the cost. You can pick from different patterns, colors and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace electric to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace (Click On this site), be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living room.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in 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 fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you suggestions on this.