10 Tell-Tale Signs You Must See To Know Before You Buy Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the room. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. 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 guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed a certain distance away from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.

Stone

A tabletop fireplace with a stone surround can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.

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

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you're considering a fireplace made of marble you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design 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, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great 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 could fall and cause damage to the surface.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning tabletop fireplace area can create a focal point on one wall in a traditional room.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. It is available in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must 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 has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring bioethanol fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is 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 is also useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel that you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to store 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.

You can also put in an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might take over the room.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend further than the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.