This Week's Top Stories About Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can alter the appearance of your home, whether you have a wood-burning or electric bio ethanol fireplace. However, finding a fireplace surround that is in line with your interior style can be a bit difficult.

Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point to the room, and it also helps break up a wall mount fireplaces that may otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds can be used to store wreathes and garlands and these are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.

It is essential to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a wide range of options in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

The most sought-after wood for fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a strong thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, thereby helping to protect it against damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other types of wood fireplace surrounds are available, and include pine veneers and oak. Both of these materials are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They are available from many DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be positioned some distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements which are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your house, as it not only blends in with your style, but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a higher price.

There are many kinds of stone you can use for your fireplace surround, including granite and marble. Both are extremely durable and can last an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

While natural stone is slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides the highest level of durability and beauty that make it a worthwhile cost. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surrounds made of natural stone. This will make it an original design element.

Stone surrounds are great for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and aren't warped or cracked when exposed to heat. They also resist scratches, stains, and abrasions. Granite is a popular and inexpensive choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause an illness or fire danger.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The stunning stone can be used in a range of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go with your decor. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the room while bringing harmony between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is inert to heat, meaning it doesn't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also insulates the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you're certain to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you're considering an elegant fireplace you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated style. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home by Tamsin Johnston are great with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared for additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to clean it regularly to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is natural stone that can be used to add an attractive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up against high temperatures, which makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the space around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a variety of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire place can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in a traditional room.

The classic look of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with many design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and can resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it should be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can endure enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of decors and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that add some contrast to the space. The type of steel that you select will depend on your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Certain fireplace surrounds made of steel have a mantel that can be used to house decorative items like pots or even plants. The style of the mantel can vary however, most have simple designs or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This is usually less expensive and works well in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might take over the room.

When installing a new surround, it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.