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 really make the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with 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 fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room and can break up walls that would otherwise be blank. A
wooden fireplaces surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are many options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a sturdy and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a
ethonal fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. marble fireplaces (
watch this video) work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the
fireplace suites has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements 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, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring 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 economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural
stone fireplaces that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a great choice for
fireplaces shop. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a variety of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.