It's The Ugly Truth About Fireplace Surrounds
Wiki Article
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 electric or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture as it creates a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are many options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is important to remember that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your home more quickly and at more money.
You can choose from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you choose to install a marble fire place you should pick a color that is in harmony with the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an attractive 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 to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative items like vase or even plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the website space.
It is crucial to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer advice on this.