Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season.
It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.
You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or shrink when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also important to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be combined with a variety of designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.