10 Facts About Fireplace Surrounds That Can Instantly Put You In An Upbeat Mood
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
It is important to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any style from modern to traditional. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong 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 air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It can increase the value of your home because it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a wide range of stones for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful alternative to open floor designs. They add class and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated 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 fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. on the wall fireplace can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe 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're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.