24 Hours To Improving Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fireplaces or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.

Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a solid, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available from many DIY and home-based stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by ethanol fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to create a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home faster and for a higher price.

You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of beauty and durability that is worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. marble fireplaces (click here to read) work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.

If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an attractive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of a traditional room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is available in a range of colors, 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 smoke of burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients 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 next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative objects like vases or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace suites and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you're using a combustible material for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.