Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the space. But choosing a surround that matches your interior style can be a bit difficult.
Brick is one option that can fit into contemporary-, rustic- or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners with a limited budget as it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point in the room and breaks a wall which could otherwise be empty. A wood surround can also make it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang wreathes and garlands and these can be easily removed when the holiday season is over.
It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a range of styles and finishes to fit in with any decor, from traditional to modern. There are also a wide range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For instance, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is to the wall flush, while others are designed to function as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
Oak is the most popular wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is strong and attractive. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.
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 as well. They are available at many DIY and home-based stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to remember that it must be placed some distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add a rustic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home since it is not only a part of with your interior design but also matches it. Indeed, some studies show that a beautifully designed fireplace can help your house sell more quickly and at a greater price.
You can choose from a range of stones to make your fireplace's surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally, they are often cheaper than wood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, however it provides a higher degree of durability and beauty and is therefore a worthy investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also opt to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for wood and gas burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are able to withstand high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to extreme heat. They also resist scratches, stains and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
A fireplace stove (Click Home) surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The crevices and joints between the stones could be a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is essential to prevent any buildup that could lead to a health problem or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in various 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.
Unlike other materials, marble is resistant to heat, meaning it will not change color or become warped as the fireplace 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 range of finishes and colors, so you can find the most suitable match for your style.
If you're planning to install an elegant fireplace you'll need to select one that matches other elements of design in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be combined with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic appearance. Darker marbles, like the deep swirls found in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, can be paired with earth tones and more comfortable styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble be prepared for additional maintenance. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to preserve its appearance. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent etching and water staining. There are marble cleaners available on the market. But, you must test them first in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble when you don't want be a constant maintenance person.
Granite
Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is able to withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire free of the possibility of ash and other debris which could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your clients an array of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. Consider black and white swirls to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that wraps for several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living room.
Limestone is a non-combustible alternative with a classic look for any home. This stone is available in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a range of styles and themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to resist the smoke of burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, grey and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring flame, and it's easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It is a strong rock with superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and can be paired with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or combine it with other materials, such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround can be used to assist with draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have a rougher texture that adds an element of contrast to the room. The kind of steel you select will be determined by your personal preference for aesthetics and the color scheme chosen for your room.
Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. The style of the mantel may differ but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This is typically less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, as an enormous surround could take over the space.
When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth as well as the chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround is safe away from the opening of the fireplace and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look nice). If you plan to use a combustible surround, then you'll need to consider the local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.
