Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an
electric fireplace wall mounted or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easy to paint.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard, solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and
offer shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
When you purchase a fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the opening of the fireplace for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can add a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
There are many kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the home.
One disadvantage of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor designs. They add elegance and sophistication while bringing cohesion between the different zones.
Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the ideal option to match your style.
If you're going with a fireplace made of marble, you'll want to choose a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and
offer relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can
offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric design of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is available in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can endure enormous 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 is a great option for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes.
