How To Explain Fireplace Surrounds To Your Grandparents
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it creates an accent piece for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the festive season has ended.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a solid and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house, as it is not only a part of with your interior style but also matches it. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your home more quickly and at more money.
You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can pick from various shades, patterns and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create a unique design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces electric. They can withstand high temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it doesn't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps insulate heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired 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 house by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and softer styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to clean the marble frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are many marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider 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 with wood burning can be a perfect wall feature in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning when placed next to a ethanol fire place and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under stress granites can stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the space. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel come with a mantel which can be used to store decorative items like vase or plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where an enormous surround could take over the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.