Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great choice for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides a focal point for the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying 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. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the cost. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the ideal option to fit your style.
If you choose to install an open fireplace made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some 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 necessary to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market to use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single 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 as well as creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround can also be used to aid in problems with drafting. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others are rougher to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme that you select for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without the mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer suggestions on this.