20 Questions You Should Ask About Fireplace Surrounds Before Purchasin…

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

If you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match your interior style is not always straightforward.

Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for those who are on a tight budget since it can be painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it provides an accent piece for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they can be easily removed when the festive season is over.

When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that suit any decor from modern to traditional. There are also a wide range of options for dimensions and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set flush against the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a sturdy thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available at many home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them often.

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

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home since it blends with your style, but also complements it. A few studies have demonstrated that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your house faster and at an increased price.

There are many kinds of stones can be used for your fireplace surround, including marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with the highest quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from various patterns, colors and textures to create a distinctive look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for wood and gas burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They also resist stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces in the house.

A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in an illness or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in various styles ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or warp as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the ideal match to your style.

If you're planning to install a marble fireplace, you'll want to choose the color that is compatible with other design elements in 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 appearance. Darker marbles, like the swirls in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and softer styles.

If you decide to install a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. You will also need to clean your marble frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are a variety of 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 an excellent alternative to marble if you don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an amazing accent to any fireplace. It is a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can pick from a wide array of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create a focal point on a single wall in a traditional room.

The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. It comes in a variety of shades that include light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand the smoke of burning wood, however it's important to note that limestone must be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which can crack or break easily under stress, granites are able to stand up to a tremendous amount of stress without breaking. This durability is an important aspect that allows granite structures to last for a long time.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with a variety of styles and is easy to maintain. It is possible to use it on its own or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a traditional look.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish and others are rougher to create a contrast in the room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme you choose for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The style of the mantel can vary, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your wall.mounted fireplace.

You can also put in a surround only, without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms, as a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the opening of the fireplace and does not extend beyond the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide suggestions on this.