The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture as it serves as a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season has ended.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that match any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular 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, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at several DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
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 security. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to add a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style but it can also increase the value of your home. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers an exceptional level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful addition to open floor designs. They can add style and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the different zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it will not change color or shrink 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 myriad of colors and finishes, so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your clients an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent 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 as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood for Fireplacesandstove.Com a classic appearance.
A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance and others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel that you choose will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ however, most have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.
