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 room regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hold garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options for size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is based on fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone fireplaces is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.
If you choose to go with a marble fire place, you will want to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone, which helps keep the area around the fire free of the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in a traditional room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into various design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This option is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.