A Provocative Remark About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is a popular alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to match any style from modern to traditional. There are many options for size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. 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 home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by ethonal fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with the style of your interior but it can also increase the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and electric fire marble. Both are durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it comes with a high quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between a variety of patterns, colors, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces shop make a wonderful alternative to open floor plans. They add elegance and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between the different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, such as the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. But, you must test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for Fireplaces electric. It's also a non-combustible material which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
Your clients can choose from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of modern gas cheap fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. It is available in a range of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for 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 a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it is extremely difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items such as vases or even plants. The design of the mantel may differ however, most have simple designs or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where 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 ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.