The 10 Most Scariest Things About Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.
Brick is a popular option that can fit into modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easy to paint.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it provides 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 decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hold wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. wooden fireplaces surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any style from modern to traditional. There are also a variety of options available in terms of size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Some are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a strong and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.
The pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at many home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be positioned a certain distance away from the firebox opening for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to give a warm and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend into the style of your interior, but it can also boost the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
You can choose from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with little maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can opt to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to temperatures that are high. Furthermore, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces in the house.
A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to prevent any accumulation that could result in the risk of a fire or health issue.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your design. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
In contrast to other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it doesn't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you're bound to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose a color that complements other elements of design in the room. white fireplace marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace (http://git.njrzwl.Cn/), be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. However, it is recommended to test them in a discreet area before using them to clean 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 a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your clients a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire space can create the perfect focal point for one wall in an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can blend with a variety of designs and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, but 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, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, grey and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking beautiful.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally has greater durability and strength. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to scratch or chip. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different styles of decor. It is possible to use it as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood for a traditional style.
A metal surround can be used to help with problems with drafting. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in different styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is suitable for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
It is crucial to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you are using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can help you on this.