How To Explain Fireplace Surrounds To Your Grandparents

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

The perfect surround for your fireplace can make or break the appearance of your home regardless of whether you have electric fireplace or wood-burning fireplace. Finding a fireplace surround that matches your interior style is not always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget, since it is easy to paint.

Wood

A wood fireplace surround is an essential piece of furniture since it serves as a focal point for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands and fireplaces Wood can be easily removed after the holiday season.

It is important to fit in with the style of your home when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds can be purchased in a variety of finishes and styles to complement any decor from traditional to contemporary. There are many choices for design and size. For example certain fireplace surrounds are available in a flat style and is set in a straight line with the wall fires while others are designed to act as a mantel, and are positioned out from it.

The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak, and it is recognized as an extremely durable and beautiful material. 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, which helps to shield it from damage and attack by fungal organisms.

Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available and these include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel as well. These are available from a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure security. This distance is determined by the clearance for fire hazards requirements that are based on codes and regulations for the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace with a stone surround can add an inviting and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your house because it blends with your interior design but also matches it. Some studies show that a beautiful designed fireplace suite can help you make your home sell faster and at a greater price.

You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace's surround. These include marble and granite. Both are highly durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides an exceptional level of durability and beauty that makes it worth the cost. You can pick from different shades, patterns, and textures to create a distinctive design for your home. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround custom made with natural stone, which makes it a one-of-a-kind design element.

Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a popular and cost-effective choice for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant and non-porous, as well as resistant to chemicals that would otherwise damage other surfaces within the house.

A fireplace surround made of stone can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones could trap household dirt. It is crucial to keep your fireplace clean to avoid any accumulation that could result in a fire hazard or health problem.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space and bringing cohesion between various zones.

In contrast to other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it won't change color or warp when the fireplace heats up. It also helps to insulate the heat, allowing it to keep the area warm even after the fireplace 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 a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other design elements in the room. White marble looks great with neutral tones and can be paired with wood trim or accent pieces to create a classic look. Darker marbles like the ones featured in this home designed by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also need to wipe it down regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are a variety of marble cleaning products available. But, you must test them in a private area prior to using them to clean your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to commit to constant maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which keeps the surrounding area of the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall and damage its surface.

Your customers can select from a wide array of granite colors to personalize their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric form of modern gas fireplaces. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire place can create a focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can be combined with a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it must be sealed regularly to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It features oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey, and blue. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and it's also easy to clean and keep looking gorgeous.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand massive amounts of pressure without cracking or breaking. This is the primary reason why granite structures last for many centuries.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral design is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials, such as wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can also be used to aid in draft issues. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for cheap fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Some fireplace surrounds made of steel are polished and brushed to give an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add an element of contrast to the room. The type of steel that you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include mantels that can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel may differ, but most feature simple or one-step design that adds depth to your fireplace.

Alternatively, you can choose to install a surround that does not have a mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal in smaller spaces in which a massive surround might be too large for the space.

When installing a new surround it is important to consider the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which isn't safe nor look good). If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can offer guidance on this.