What s The Ugly Truth About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fire or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can transform the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.

Brick is a great choice for modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for those who are on a tight 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 for the room, and also breaks up walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.

It is important to be in line with the style of your house when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

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

Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These can be purchased from numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.

When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be positioned a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into the style of your interior, but it can also boost the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty and stone fireplaces (https://ud-kultura.ru) is therefore a worthy investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace suite surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate 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 perfect match to your style.

If you choose to go with a marble fire place it is important to pick a color that is in harmony with the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. marble fireplaces is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market to use however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living space.

Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can be combined with a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out 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 is the main reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look, while others are rougher to bring more contrast to an area. The type of steel that you choose will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

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

You can also opt to install a surround with no mantel. This is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.

When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look attractive). If you are using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can give you suggestions on this.