24-Hours To Improve Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fire fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to match the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is in a straight line with the wall fires while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are often sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.
You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it has a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces shop (More Signup bonuses). Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you choose to go with a marble fire place it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install 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 appearance. You'll also have to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in the traditional space.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various design themes and styles. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, Fireplace Inserts (Barokafunerals.Co.Za) which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to a room. The type of steel you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color white Fireplace scheme you choose for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items such as pots or even plants. The mantel design can vary but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without the mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.