Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the room. But finding a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick can be used in modern, 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 essential piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to give an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend into the style of your interior and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns, and textures to create an original design for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with 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 style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your customers an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, 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 look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a range of colors 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 the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic look.
A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some steel fireplace surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative objects like vase or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible product for your surround then you will have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.