A Delightful Rant About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the room. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it is easy to paint.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides an accent piece for the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season is over.

It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when choosing 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 contemporary. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, 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 from wood is oak and it is recognized as an extremely 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 that it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.

When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your style of interior design and style, but it also can improve the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home more quickly and at an increased price.

You can pick from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create a unique design for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and affordable option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or bioethanol fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, making it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace it is important to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy 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 (godgiven.nu), be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its elegance. You will also need to clean the marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before 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 another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

Your clients can choose from a range of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can be able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning 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 exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to last for centuries.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround may also be used to aid in draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces wood using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others have a rougher texture to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to hold decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no more than the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible product for your surround then you will have to consider the rules and codes applicable to your area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.