Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't 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 tight budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks the wall 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 they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can pick from a wide range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches 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 style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also have to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
Your customers can select from a variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create a focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with many designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install the surround alone, without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.