Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the room. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall which could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. wooden fireplaces fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options available in terms of size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be located some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.
There are many types of stone that you can use for your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it won't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're certain to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a large surround may take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you suggestions on this.