Don't Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But finding a surround that fits your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, since it can be easily painted.

wood fireplaces

A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell more quickly and at a greater price.

You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last a long time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace inserts's surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance 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 damage other surfaces within the home.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and 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 crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match to your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market to use, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any tabletop fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vase or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most come with a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you're using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can give you advice on this.