The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Wiki Article
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options for size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned out from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a strong, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and 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 numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can give 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 constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are highly durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest level of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can pick from various shades, patterns and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an original design element.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms 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 are an excellent addition to open floor plans. They can add style and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match to your style.
If you choose to go with 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 looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and damage its surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create the perfect focal point for one wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to last fireplacesandstoves for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to help with drafting issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on 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 are rougher to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install the surround alone, without mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.