24 Hours To Improving Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.

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

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with your interior design style, but it can also increase the value of your home. In fact, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher value.

There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, creating 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 break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to a stone fireplaces, growthbookmarks.com, fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are an excellent option for open floor designs. They can add style and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the various zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your style.

If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble fireplaces cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent 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.

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

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone must 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 waves of blue, grey and white. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative objects like pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may be too large for the space.

It is essential to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can offer suggestions on this.