24 Hours For Improving Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, fireplace the perfect surround can really make the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and can break up a wall which might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes to fit any style from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is 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 strong solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home faster and for a higher price.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace stove surrounds made of natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or Fireplaces become warped 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 variety of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire place can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with a variety of decor. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items like pots or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might take over the room.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when 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 does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.