(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/3226/klarstein-bergamo-electric-fireplace-electric-fire-electric-fire-place-2-heating-levels-thermostat-realistic-flame-illusion-independent-led-flame-effect-with-resin-logs-granite-grey-3226.jpg)Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the space. But choosing a surround that fits your interior style can be a bit challenging.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget, as it is easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks the wall that would otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for wreaths and garlands and are easily removed after the holiday season.
It is crucial to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that match any style from modern to traditional. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.
The most popular kind of fireplace surround made from wood is oak, and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a solid and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means that it absorbs moisture in the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from many DIY and home stores. They are also commonly sold online by retailers such as Pureglow.
It is important to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is determined based on fire hazard clearance requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.
There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces wood. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and affordable choice for fireplace surrounds. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to the chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One drawback to the stone fireplace surround is that it is 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 that could result in a health problem or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire is out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're sure to find the right one that will suit your taste.
If you're considering a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You will also need to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is a great alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/2108/dimplex-clement-optiflame-inset-electric-fire-traditional-style-matte-black-led-flame-effect-fire-with-artificial-logs-9cm-inset-depth-and-2kw-adjustable-fan-heater-2108.jpg)Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to create an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the ethonal fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire space can create a focal point on one wall fireplace in an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with various design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients want a more cool tone, try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white, and blue. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace is a great addition to any home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and goes with many different styles of decor. It can be used by itself or combine it with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It creates a more tightly-packed area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace stove surrounds are available in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher surface to add contrast to a room. The type of steel you choose will be based on your personal style and the color scheme that you have chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel that can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The style of the mantel may differ, but most feature a simple design or a one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.
You can also install a surround only, without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as the large surround can overwhelm the space.
When installing a new surround it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.