5 Killer Quora Answers To Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.

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

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up a wall which would 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 they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

It is important to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, which is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

It is essential to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is based on fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher price.

There are a variety of kinds of stones you can use for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it offers the highest quality of beauty and durability that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can also choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could become traps for household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to prevent any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, so it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.

If you're going with a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles like the swirls in this home by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace (top article), be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly 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 a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could otherwise fall and damage the surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for the wall of a traditional room.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into a variety of designs and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone must be regularly sealed to guard it from 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. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma. It naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to last for a long time.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to help with drafting issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace stove surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary however, most have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install the surround alone, without a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you guidance on this.