The 10 Most Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A tabletop fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point for the room, and also breaks up the wall fireplace that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are many options for size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a solid, dense timber that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your home area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a great option to give a rustic and warm appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home, as it not only blends in with your interior style but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are highly durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it offers a high level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces shop (Continued). They can withstand high temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor plans. They add elegance and sophistication, while also bringing harmony between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it doesn't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're considering a fireplace made of marble it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design 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 style. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more casual styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market to use however be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which keeps the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create the perfect focal point for a single wall in a traditional room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with many styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern fireplace style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It can be used on its own or mix it with other materials like wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to an area. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative items like vases or even plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds 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 crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.