How Do You Explain Fireplace Surrounds To A Five-Year-Old

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fireplaces or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it serves as an accent piece for the room, and it also helps break up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive 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 are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It not only blends into the style of your interior and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.

You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from various shades, patterns and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas 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 is a popular and cost-effective choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match to 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 timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth 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 to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market to use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the structure.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall feature in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing bioethanol fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative objects like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace electric opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.