The Most Advanced Guide To Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit challenging.

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

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including 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 numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

It is crucial to remember that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by ethanol fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic style to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made from natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it won't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match for your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more comfortable styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could 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, consider black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall feature in a traditional living room.

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

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to help with drafting issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for cheap fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to a room. The type of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also install an only a surround, with or without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace suite opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.