The 10 Worst Fireplace Surrounds Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
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Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have a wood-burning or electric fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches the style of your home isn't always straightforward.
Brick is one alternative that can be incorporated into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that could otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these are easily removed after the festive season is over.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are a range of options in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to be a mantel, and are positioned to be a distance away from it.
The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and beautiful. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. 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 are fairly inexpensive and are typically sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at a number of home and DIY stores. They are also typically sold through online retailers like Pureglow.
It is essential to keep in mind that a wood surround should be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great way to give a rustic and warm look to your home. It can boost the value of your house because it blends with your interior style but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at more money.
There are many types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are highly durable and last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.
While natural stone may be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can choose between a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can choose to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it a unique design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't break or warp when exposed to heat. Furthermore, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be a hassle and time-consuming to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become traps for household dirt. It is important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent any buildup that could lead to the risk of a fire or health hazard.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your decor. Marble fireplaces make a wonderful alternative to open floor plans. They add class and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the various zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you can find the perfect match to your style.
If you choose to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to choose a shade that complements the other Stoves UK design elements in the room. White marble is great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic style. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more relaxed styles.
If you decide to go with a fireplace made of marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also necessary to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. 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 ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your customers can select from a wide array of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a fire area can create an eye-catching focal point on a single wall in an old-fashioned room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic style for any home. It is available in a range of colors, including light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand the smoke of 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 white and grey. It looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.
Steel
A steel fireplace surround is a great way to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. It can be used as a stand-alone material or mix it with other materials like wood for a traditional look.
A metal surround can also be used to help with draft issues. It creates a tighter area for combustion that helps reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is particularly beneficial for gas-fuelled fireplaces.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.
Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to store decorative items such as vases or even plants. Mantel designs can differ but most come with a simple or stepped design to give more dimension to your fireplace.
Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces where a large surround may 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 situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible material as your surround, you'll need to take into consideration the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can provide advice on this.