5 Laws That Will Help The Fireplace Surrounds Industry
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the look of the room, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture since it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up a wall that may otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is renowned for being a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is resistant 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.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your region.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.
There are a variety of kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and inexpensive option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your freestanding fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces wood work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is a heat-resistant material which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a myriad of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is great 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, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the ethonal fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
Your customers can select from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, 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 area.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a range of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples 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 has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide contrast to the space. The kind of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots 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.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.