Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It’s also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it’s crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a strong and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it’s important to remember that it must be positioned a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your style of interior design, but it can also increase the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace’s surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually 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 variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also opt to have your fireplace’s surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and don’t crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for fireplace suite surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and 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 that could result in a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it’s easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a wide variety of finishes and colors, so you’re sure to find the right one to match your style.
If you’re considering a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, ethanol Fireplaces and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don’t want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It’s a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It’s also non-combustible. which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white fireplace swirls to match the geometric design of modern fireplace gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite looks beautiful next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It’s rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel is different but the majority of them have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in a surround only, without a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.
It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you’re using a combustible product for your surround, you’ll need to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can provide guidance on this.