Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home, whether you have
electric fires or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it provides a focal point for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a range of options in terms of size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and
Electric fireplace are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from several DIY and home-based stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to add a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at an increased price.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates 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 considering a
marble fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble
fireplace suite be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also important to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning
ethanol fire area can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most come with simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and 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 material as your surround, then you'll need to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can help you on this.