10 Tell-Tale Symptoms You Must Know To Buy A Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
If you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can transform the space. But finding a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit tricky.
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 since it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a variety of choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.
Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These can be purchased from many home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to keep in mind that it should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It not only blends into your interior design style but it can also improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.
You can choose from a range of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides a high level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from various shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will create an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas ethanol fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.
One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. It is essential to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped as the bioethanol fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a myriad 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 you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood fireplaces trim or accent pieces to create a classic 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 install a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create a stunning accent in any fireplace. It is a durable stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their electric fireplace surrounds. Think about white and black swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, that can break or crack easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for many centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance and others are rougher to add contrast to an area. The kind of steel you select will be based on your personal style and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.
Some steel fireplace surrounds include a mantel, which can be used to store decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also install a surround only, without mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is essential to consider the dimensions of your hearth as well as the chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you're using a combustible material for your surround, then you'll have to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your particular area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.