Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home, whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. The right surround to match the style of your home isn’t always easy.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it’s a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it creates a focal point for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are many options for size and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned out from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give a warm and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
You can choose from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level 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 style for your room. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will create an original design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces wooden. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don’t crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room 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 right one that will suit your taste.
If you’re going with a marble fireplace, you’ll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, like the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You’ll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you’re not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It’s a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces electric. It’s also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace insert surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and 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 place can create the perfect focal point for one wall fireplace in the traditional space.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. It is available in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
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 stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It’s rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a classic style.
A metal surround can be used to assist with drafting issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative objects like vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance 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 good). If you’re using a combustible material as your surround, you’ll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.
