Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an
electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the room. But finding a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit tricky.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.
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 walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season has ended.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that fit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are many options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are often sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house since it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your house faster and at more money.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone 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 patterns, colors and textures to create an original design for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and
Wall Fires gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a popular and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble
fireplaces electric work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace (
www.Eticalavoro.it) 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 with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the room. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can give you suggestions on this.