The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always easy.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an important piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.

It is essential to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any style from modern to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned away from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include pine veneers and oak. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your region.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can increase the value of your home because it not only blends in with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home faster and for more money.

You can choose from a variety of stones to make your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and Fireplaces Wooden textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an original design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance 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 damage other surfaces within the house.

One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace insert gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you're considering a marble fireplace (Read More On this page), you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market to use, but be careful to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent in any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces wooden. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look, consider black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. This granite is amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood for a classic style.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the room. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color Wall fires scheme that you have selected for your space.

Some fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative objects like vase or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

You can also put in an only a surround, with or without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are using a combustible material as your surround then you will have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can give you guidance on this.