A Good Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit challenging.

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

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is crucial to match the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a dense, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It not only blends into your style of interior design but it can also boost the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

There are many kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are highly durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning ethanol fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.

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 hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is a heat-resistant material and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you're considering an elegant fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable stone fireplaces that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern fireplace-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for one wall fireplace in an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way 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 alone or combine it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be used to aid in drafting issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've chosen for your room.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items like pots or even plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look attractive). If you're using a combustible product for your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.