Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an
electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A
wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks walls that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned out from it.
The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround should be placed 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 codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. Indeed, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can pick from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose between a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create an original look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern.
Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles such as the swirls in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent 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. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for
fireplaces wood. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and damage its surface.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may take over the room.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you are using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to consider the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can provide guidance on this.
