Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks the wall that would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When choosing a wood 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 fit any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be positioned some distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It not only blends in with the style of your interior, but it can also increase the value of your home. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
There are many kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
While natural stone may be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and inexpensive option for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the area warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose one that matches other elements of design 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 sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also important to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in a hidden spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want commit to constant maintenance.
Granite
Granite is natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
Your clients can choose from a wide array of granite color options to customize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living space.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be combined with various styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking gorgeous.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites can endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This is a crucial aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different styles of decor. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional look.
A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance while others have a rougher texture to add contrast to a room. The type of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a huge surround could take over the room.
It is essential to take into account the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can give you advice on this.
