The Main Problem With Fireplace Surrounds And How You Can Resolve It

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your home, whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn’t always easy.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It’s also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an important piece of furniture because it provides an accent piece for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to store garlands and wreaths. They are easily removed after the festive season has ended.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it’s crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a myriad of options for size and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned away from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. It is a sturdy, dense timber that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at several home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be positioned a certain distance away from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon 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. It can boost the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose between various shades, patterns and textures to create an original style for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for example is among the most popular and cost-effective 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 home.

One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be 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 essential to prevent any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is inert to heat, which means it won’t change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect design to suit your taste.

If you choose to go with an open fireplace made of marble you should select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its elegance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. There are many marble cleaning products 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 a great 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’s a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It’s also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the ethonal Fire free of ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.

You can offer your clients a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that enhance the geometric design of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. It comes in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to avoid water penetration and staining.

If your clients want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite looks stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It’s rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without causing damage. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral design works with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can choose to use it by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to create a more elegant appearance, while others are rougher to bring more contrast to a room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you’ve selected for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works 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 ensure that the surround is not further than the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you’re using a combustible material for your surround then you will need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for your area of residence. A professional can advise you on this.