Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have an
electric firesuite or wood-burning fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture since it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.
When choosing a
wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned away from it.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from 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 reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your house faster and at an increased price.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from different colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas
ethanol fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example, is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous. It is also resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One disadvantage of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with a
marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements 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 style. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also have to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.
Your customers can pick from a variety of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This
stone fireplaces is light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into various styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A steel
electric fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor.