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, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace electric. But finding a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit tricky.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It’s also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point to the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is important to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are many options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set away from it.
The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace stove surround is a great option to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It not only blends into your interior design style but it can also increase the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home faster and for an increased price.
There are many types of stone that you can use for your fireplace’s surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose between various patterns, colors, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won’t warp or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble is available in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you’re bound to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.
If you’re going with a marble fireplace, you’ll want to choose the color Electric fireplace that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. You’ll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you’re not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it’s also easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It’s rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of 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 some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most 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 typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn’t extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you’re planning to install an ignitable surround, you’ll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.