Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a great 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 painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it creates an accent piece for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style, but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose between various patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will create a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a popular and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire place can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple 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 area looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites are able to endure a lot of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ however, most have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is essential to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.