13 Things You Should Know About Fireplace Surrounds That You Might Not Know
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and can break up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a strong 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 shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from various colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful addition to open floor plans. They add elegance and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the various zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option to match your style.
If you decide to install an open fireplace made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean 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 option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into a variety of styles and design themes. get more info It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma, so it naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring 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 on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items like vase or even plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.
It is essential to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.