No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your style of interior isn't always easy.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 can be easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which could otherwise be empty. In addition, a wooden surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and can be easily removed after the holiday season.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a range of styles and finishes that fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design 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.
Oak is the most well-known wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a hard, solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Pine and oak veneers are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. These are available from many home and DIY stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create an inviting and rustic style to your home. It's not just a way to blend in with the style of your interior, but it can also improve the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can even 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 wood and gas burning fireplaces wooden. Stone surrounds are resistant to extreme temperatures and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a well-known and cost-effective choice 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 time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning feature. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.
Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, so it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match to your style.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.
Your customers can pick from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance, consider black and silvery white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a fire place can create a focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. It is available in a range of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite looks beautiful next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain intact for centuries.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional appearance.
A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher texture to bring more contrast to an area. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The design of the mantel is different however, most have simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround with no a mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look nice). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.
