This Week s Most Popular Stories Concerning Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your room regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric firesuite fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick is a great alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or Marble fireplaces farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up a wall which could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. wooden fireplaces surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style that is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most popular type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is recognized as a durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow offer them regularly.
It is crucial to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it blends with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautiful constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Although natural stone might be a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces shop. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is crucial to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, adding elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or warp when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down regularly to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in a non-glaring area prior to 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 a natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to high temperatures, which makes it a great choice for cheap fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
You can provide your customers with a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look think about black and silvery white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of the traditional space.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. It looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and it's also easy to clean to keep the area looking stunning.
Granite is a igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key factor that enables granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.
A metal surround is beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you have chosen for your room.
Some fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items like pots or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary 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 a surround only, without a mantel. This option is often cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might take over the room.
When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you're using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can help you on this.