Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. The right surround to match your style of interior isn’t always straightforward.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it’s a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it creates an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season.
It is important to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set to be a distance away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine veneers and Ethanol Fireplaces oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They are available from many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace suite surround is a great option to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It not only blends in with 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 can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also opt to have your fireplace’s surround built with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don’t crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won’t change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you’re certain to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you’re going with an elegant fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more 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 necessary to clean it regularly to prevent 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. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don’t want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It’s a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It’s also non-combustible which helps to keep the area around the ethanol fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the surface.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.
It is essential to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you’re using a combustible material as your surround, then you’ll need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide suggestions on this.
