Zandra Bratcher asked 6 days ago
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn’t always easy.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It’s also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and can break up a wall which might otherwise be blank. 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 taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a dense solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from many DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it’s important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace’s surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from various shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and don’t crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it won’t change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you’re certain to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you’re considering a marble fireplace you’ll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace (read on) be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You’ll also have to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you’re not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It’s also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It is available in a variety 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 resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. It looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that’s formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It’s rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is crucial to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn’t extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you’re planning to install a combustible surround, then you’ll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.