A Productive Rant About Fireplace Surrounds
Wiki Article
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the look of the room, whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set directly against the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon codes and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can increase the value of your house since it blends with your interior design but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and can last many years with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it has a higher level of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose between different colors, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds are available in different styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are a great option for open floor plans. They add class and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the various zones.
Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or warp 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 variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the right one to fit your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace it is important to select one that matches other design elements in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, complement earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace made of marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that might get more info fall and harm the surface.
Your customers can select from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic aesthetic for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with a variety of styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking stunning.
Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, so it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of 10 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 a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround is also useful to reduce 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 using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance and others have a rougher surface to add contrast to the room. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround with no mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a huge surround could be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you are using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to consider the rules and codes applicable to the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.