Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the room. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn’t always straightforward.
Brick is one option that is a good fit for contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It’s also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room, and also breaks up the wall that might otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hold garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the festive season is over.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options available in terms of dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from several home and DIY stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to remember that a wood surround must be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic style to your home. It can enhance the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a higher value.
There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace’s surround, such as granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of shades, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace’s surround made from natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and they aren’t warped or cracked when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a beautiful, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, which means it will not change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable match to your style.
If you’re considering an elegant fireplace you’ll need to select one that matches 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 look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You’ll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a private area prior to using them to clean 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’s a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It’s also a non-combustible stone, which helps keep the area around the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your customers an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create a focal point on the wall of the traditional space.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It is available in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is a solid rock that’s formed by magma. It naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It’s rated as seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it’s extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is incredibly easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials like wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to aid in drafting issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the space. The type of steel that you choose will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to house decorative items like vases or even plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable in smaller spaces where a huge surround could overwhelm the space.
It is essential to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located from the fireplace opening and that it doesn’t extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn’t be safe or look good). If you are using a combustible material as your surround, then you’ll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can give you advice on this.