Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it creates an accent piece for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is essential to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are many options for size and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most sought-after wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping 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 are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.
You can choose from a variety of stones for your
freestanding fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive option for
fireplace insert surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches 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 ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a
marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can select from a wide array of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic aesthetic for any home. It comes in a range of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning
wood fireplace, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful option for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to aid in drafting issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled
fireplaces shop.