The 10 Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room, whether you have electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point to the room and also breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the holiday season is over.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes to match any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made from wood is oak and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create an inviting and rustic style to your home. It can increase the value of your home since it not only blends in with your interior design but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a variety of stones for your fireplace surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. It is important to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it will not change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements of 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 sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design, consider black and silvery white swirls that be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas Fireplaces & Stoves UK fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace place can create a focal point on one wall in the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various designs and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to an area. The type of steel you select will depend on your style preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also choose to install a surround only, without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is crucial to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible product for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the rules and codes applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.