Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always easy.
Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget, as it can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up the wall that could otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is crucial to fit in with the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that suit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including 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 are available at several home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them often.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It not only blends in with your style of interior design but it can also improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
You can choose from a variety of stones for your fireplace surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be slightly 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 colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and affordable option for fireplace surrounds. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any accumulation that could cause an hazard to fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is resistant to heat, which means it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the area warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.
If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements 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 style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more comfortable 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 frequent sealing in order to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaners on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in a hidden place prior to applying them to your marble surround. Granite is an excellent 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 resists wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire space can create the perfect focal point for the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is a stone with light browns and creams, which can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients are looking for an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to house decorative items like vase or even plants. The style of the mantel is different however, most have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.
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 is safe away from the fireplace opening and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look attractive). If you are using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.