10 Tell-Tale Symptoms You Need To Look For A New Fireplace Surrounds
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.
Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular type of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at several DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be positioned a certain distance away from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give a warm and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home because it blends with your style, but also complements it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones could trap household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're sure to find the right one to match your style.
If you're planning to install a fireplace made of marble it is important to select the color that is compatible with other design elements in 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 appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaners on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite color options for 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 area can create a focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is available in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce 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 especially 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 texture to create a contrast in the room. The type of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like pots or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.
It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the more info fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible material for your surround, you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can give you advice on this.