A Proficient Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing fireplace insert Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.

It is important to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for Electric fireplaces your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from several DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround 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 upon codes and regulations for your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your home faster and for an increased price.

There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for fireplaces shop. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive 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 surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also put in an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.

It is crucial to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.