A Relevant Rant About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can really make the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and can break up walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed to be mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak, and it is known for being both a durable and beautiful material. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
stone fireplaces
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your home since it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your house faster and at a higher price.
There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are highly durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides a high level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces shop. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces in the home.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is important to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles, like the ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston look great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and Marble fireplace (117.50.100.234) it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaning products on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the surface.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern fireplace gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living room.
The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various designs and themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock derived 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's very difficult to scratch or chip. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround may also be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative objects like pots or even plants. The design of the mantel can be different but the majority of them have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can 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 ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.