If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the room. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for 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 is a crucial piece of furniture as it serves as an accent piece for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround makes it much easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths and can be easily removed after the holiday season is over.
It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes that match any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For instance certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and attractive. 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. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both of these materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel as well. They are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also typically sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to give a warm and rustic appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your style of interior design and style, but it also can boost the value of your home. In fact, some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help you make your home sell faster and at a greater price.
There are a variety of kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose between various colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, which makes it unique design elements.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not warp or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite is a popular and cost-effective option for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is vital to avoid any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces are great for open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant which means that unlike other materials it will not change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the space warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace be prepared for extra maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing in order to maintain its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand extreme temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area around the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which might fall and harm the structure.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite is stunning when viewed next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally has superior durability and strength. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key element that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent feature for any 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 may also be used to aid in draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed for an elegant look. Others have a rougher texture that adds some contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.
Some steel surrounds include mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different but the majority of them have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
You can also opt to install a surround without mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well in smaller spaces where a large surround may be too large for the space.
When installing a new surround it is crucial to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you plan to use an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.
