Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. The right surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up the wall that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This 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 fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed
fireplace inserts could aid in selling your home faster and for a higher price.
You can choose from a wide range of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will create an original design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
One drawback of a stone
fireplace insert surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary.
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 will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match for your style.
If you choose to go with a marble fire place, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to go with a
fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the surface.
You can offer your customers an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall accent in a traditional living area.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative items like vase or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.
