9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always straightforward.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood can be a very important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks the wall that would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it is essential to choose one that complements the style of your home. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of finishes and styles to fit in with any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is set to the wall flush, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine and oak veneers. Both materials are reasonably priced and are often sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. These are available from several 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 positioned some distance from the firebox opening for safety reasons. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It not only blends into your style of interior design, but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.

While natural stone may be a bit more expensive than other materials, it offers a high quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile cost. You can pick from different patterns, colors and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and cost-effective alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone fireplaces is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup that could result in an illness or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that can transform any fireplace electric into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.

Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the right one to fit your style.

If you decide to install a marble fire place, you will want to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy look. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid 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. If you're not comfortable with committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide an attractive 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 great choice for fireplaces shop. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the surface.

You can provide your customers with an array of granite colors to choose from for their ethanol fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace area can create a focal point on a single wall in the traditional space.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into various design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, but it's important to note that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from water penetration and staining.

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. It looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock that's formed from magma, which is why it naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. In contrast to other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under pressure granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to remain in place for centuries.

Steel

A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety of decor. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials such as wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some steel fireplace surrounds have a mantel that can be used to house decorative objects like pots or even plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have mantel. This option is often less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a huge surround could take over the room.

It is essential to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth and is at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you plan to use a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.