The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Heard About Fireplace Surrounds
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can really make the room. But finding a surround that matches your style of interior can be a bit difficult.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood can be an extremely important piece of furniture because it creates a focal point in the room, and also breaks up a wall which would otherwise be blank. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.
When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes to fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Other types of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both of these are reasonably priced and are usually sold as complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panels included. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is important to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. The distance is based on fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround can give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your interior design but also complements it. Some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a higher value.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. They include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are generally less expensive than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your room. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with both wood and gas fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is among the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.
One drawback to a stone fireplace surround is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones can be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your decor. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful alternative to open floor plans. check here They can add style and sophistication while bringing cohesion between different zones.
Unlike other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or become warped as the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the ideal match for your style.
If you choose to go with an open fireplace made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create an elegant style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a fireplace made of marble. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. However, it is recommended to test them in a safe 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 another natural stone option that can provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire free of ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that can be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living room.
Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. It comes in a range 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 withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.
If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. It looks amazing next to a glowing flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional style.
A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It provides a more compact area for combustion which helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This can be especially useful for gas-powered fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to create a more elegant appearance, while others are rougher to create a contrast in a room. The kind of steel you select will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme that you have selected for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel include a mantel, which can be used to hold decorative items such as vases or plants. The style of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.
It is important to take into account the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not more than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are 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.