Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick can be used 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 can be a very important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up the wall that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that match any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
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 in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house since it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different shades, patterns and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to match your style.
If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create a focal point on the wall of the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is also useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.