Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wooden fireplaces surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. wooden fireplaces fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be placed a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to create a warm and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home faster and for a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces fireplace are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it doesn't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the right one to match your style.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for cheap fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces wood that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/2500/flamme-60-152cm-castello-slim-frame-recessed-media-wall-inset-electric-fireplace-with-multi-flame-colours-750w-1500w-2500.jpg)Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have 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 is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/369/touchstone-sideline-elite-50-inch-smart-electric-fireplace-with-surround-mantel-369.jpg)When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.
