Choosing
fireplace inserts Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point to the room and breaks 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 to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options in terms of dimensions and design. For instance, some
fireplace electric surrounds come in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as
fireplace suites surrounds. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from different shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone
fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary.
Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it doesn't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.
If you're considering a fireplace made of marble it is important to select a color that complements other elements of design 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, like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can offer your clients an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of the traditional space.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It comes in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also put in a surround only, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.