Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room, whether you have electric fireplace or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It’s also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easy to paint.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are 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 surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It’s not just a way to blend into your style of interior design but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace’s surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also opt to have your fireplace’s surround made from natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don’t warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your freestanding fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it doesn’t change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace suite is gone. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you’re planning to install a marble fireplace (over here), you’ll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You’ll also have to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you’re not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It’s a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring bioethanol fire, and it’s also easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It’s rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic look.
A metal surround may also be used to aid in draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the space. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.
It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround, you’ll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.