20 Important Questions To ASK ABOUT Fireplace Surrounds Before You Buy Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture as it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

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

Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

When you purchase a fireplace electric surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it blends with your style, but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.

You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect match for your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other design elements 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 such as the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed 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'll also have to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.

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 high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace suites. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of the traditional space.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

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

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the space. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give more dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.