The Worst Advice We've Been Given About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match your style of interior isn't always straightforward.

Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for fireplace Suite the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are many options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. 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, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available from a number of DIY and home stores. They are also sold by online retailers like Pureglow.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior design but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home more quickly and at more money.

There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces shop. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're bound to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble you should choose a shade that complements the other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the ethonal fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can select from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite looks beautiful when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to add contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no a mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can help you on this.