The 10 Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is crucial to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. For example certain freestanding fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set out from it.

Oak is the most popular wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a dense solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.

When buying a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone is a great way to add a rustic and warm style to your home. It not only blends in with your interior design style and style, but it also can increase the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your house faster and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose between different patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive style for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and they aren't warped or cracked when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.

A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout 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 space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it won't change color or become warped when the fireplace heats up. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the perfect option that will suit your taste.

If you decide to install a marble fire place, you will want to select a color that compliments the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. But, you must test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can be a perfect wall fires accent in a traditional living area.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is a stone with light browns, creams and grays that can be incorporated into many styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It is a sea-like ripple in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite is amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.

Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends 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 classic look.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered ethanol fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme chosen for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds come with a mantel which can be used to hold decorative items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple or stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without a mantel. This is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe from the fireplace opening and that it does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.