Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room regardless of whether you have an
electric fires or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit tricky.
Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides a focal point to the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a myriad of choices for design and size. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and beautiful. It is a hard solid wood that is resistant to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be placed some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it blends with your interior design but also complements it. In fact, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher value.
You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. These include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
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 pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a
freestanding fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble
fireplaces wooden work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Like other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.
If you're planning to install a
marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this house by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with 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 elegance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall accent in a traditional living space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. It looks stunning next to a roaring
ethanol fire, and is 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 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures can last for centuries.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent 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 are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes.