Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit challenging.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up walls that could otherwise be empty. Additionally, a
fireplaces wood surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of designs and sizes to choose from. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. 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, thereby helping to guard against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both materials are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds, that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by
ethanol fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends in with your style of interior design, but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally 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 patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood
fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor.
Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, making it a great option for
fireplaces electric. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the area around the
ethanol fire free of the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that can enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to assist with problems with drafting.
