9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the room. The right surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture since it creates a focal point for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned out from it.

The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can boost the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace inserts's surround, including marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from different shades, patterns, and textures to create a unique style for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made from natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well 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 are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn't change color or shrink when the fireplace suite heats up. It also insulates heat, Wood fireplaces which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston look great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall accent in a traditional living room.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is available in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed 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. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you select will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some steel fireplace surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.