Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an
electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always straightforward.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a variety of options for size and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it is not only a part of with your interior style but also complements it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability and is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a wide range of patterns, colors 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 a great choice for both wood and gas
ethanol fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the right one 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 is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on 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 impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create a focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns grays, creams and greys that can be incorporated into various designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and electric fire (
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Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma. It naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue.