How To Solve Issues With Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric fireplace or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit challenging.

Brick can be utilized in modern, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget as it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room, and it also helps break down walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the festive season is over.

It is essential to match the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that suit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are many choices for design and size. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat style and is to the electric wall fireplace flush, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.

The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both of these materials are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. They are also commonly sold through online retailers such as Pureglow.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be set a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is in accordance with the fire hazard clearance requirements, based on codes or regulations as well as laws in your region.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It's not just a way to blend into your style of interior design, but it can also increase the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your home faster and for an increased price.

There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials but it provides a higher degree of beauty and durability, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for example is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.

One drawback of the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds can be found in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room and bringing cohesion between various zones.

Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, so it won't change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.

If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble, you will want to select a color that compliments the other design elements of the room. White marble looks great when paired with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles, like the ones in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

If you decide to go with a marble fireplace be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance. It is also necessary to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. There are marble cleaners available on the market. However, you should test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to ongoing maintenance, you can consider granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area around the fire free of ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

Your clients can choose from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to complement the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. For a different look, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall focal point in a traditional living area.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic look for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns and creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is abrasive to heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone should be sealed regularly to protect it from water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.

Granite is a solid rock that's formed by magma, so it naturally possesses superior durability and strength. It's rated seven of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is a crucial element that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials like wood to create a traditional style.

A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish, while others are rougher to create a contrast in an area. The kind of steel you pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.

Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The mantel design can vary but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.

You can also opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This option is typically cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.

It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is not beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible product for your surround, you'll have to consider the regulations and codes for the area you live in. A professional can help you on this.