20 Important Questions To To Ask About Fireplace Surrounds Before You …

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The right surround for your fireplace can be the difference between enhancing or ruining the appearance of your room, whether you have an electric fires or wood-burning electric fireplace. But choosing a surround that is in line with your style of interior can be a bit tricky.

Brick can be utilized in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easily painted.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround can be a very important piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point in the room and can break up the wall that could otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood surround makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily taken down after the holidays.

It is essential to match the style of your home when selecting a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of styles and finishes that complement any decor from traditional to modern. There are also a variety of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Some are designed as a mantel that is positioned away from the wall.

The most popular kind of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against fungus attack and damage.

The pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panels included. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

It is important to remember that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based upon the codes and regulations applicable to your home area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create an inviting and rustic appearance to your home. It can boost the value of your home because it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.

You can pick from a wide range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are extremely durable and last for a long time with little maintenance. In addition they are usually less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it offers a higher level of durability and beauty which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from various colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look for your home. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround made from natural stone, creating an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and don't warp or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any accumulation that could cause a fire hazard or health issue.

Marble

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

Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also absorbs heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to fit your style.

If you decide to install a marble fire place it is important to select a color that compliments the other design elements in the room. White marble is a popular choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles, such as the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared for extra maintenance when you select a fireplace made of marble. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. It is also necessary to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaners on the market to use however be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, Electric firesuite think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it a great option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which helps keep the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

You can offer your customers an array of granite color options for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fireplace space can create an eye-catching focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

Limestone is another non-combustible option with a classic style for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can blend with various styles and design themes. It is not affected by heat and is able to withstand the smoke that comes from burning wood, however it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to guard it from staining and water penetration.

If your customers prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic waves of blue, white and grey. This granite looks beautiful in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally has exceptional durability and strength. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which break or crack easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without being damaged. This is the key reason why granite structures last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and goes with many different types of decor. It can be used by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround may also be used to aid in drafting issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished for a more elegant finish and others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in a room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as vase or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

Alternately, you can opt to install a surround without mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround does not extend beyond the front of the hearth and is at an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.