12 Companies Leading The Way In Fireplace Surrounds
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
No matter if you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. But finding a surround that is in line with your interior style may be a bit tricky.
Brick is a great option that can fit into modern fireplace, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners on a tight budget, since it is easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it serves as an accent piece for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used for garlands and wreaths and are easily taken down after the holidays.
When selecting a fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes to match 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 that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as an actual mantel and are set out from it.
The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong solid wood that is resistant to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.
Other kinds of wood fireplace surrounds are also available, including pine veneers and oak. Both of these are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds with the hearth and back panel included. They are available at a number of DIY and home-based stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.
It is essential to remember that a wood surround should be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can add a rustic and warm look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style, but it can also increase the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a fireplace with a good design can aid in selling your home faster and for more money.
There are a variety of kinds of stone can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional level of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can opt 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 resist high temperatures, and they do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a well-known and affordable option for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and abrasion resistant to chemicals that can harm other surfaces.
One disadvantage of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is crucial to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or ethonal fire danger.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that can transform any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone can be used in a range of styles, from modern to traditional, making it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion 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 is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire has gone out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal design to suit your taste.
If you're considering a fireplace made of marble you'll need to select one that matches 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 look. Darker marbles like the swirls in this home designed 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 is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to preserve its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to avoid etching and water stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can utilize, but be careful to test them in an inconspicuous place prior to applying them to your marble surround. If you're not comfortable with committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an alternative that is affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to provide an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable stone that can withstand high temperatures and wear. This makes it an excellent option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that might otherwise fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
Your clients can choose from a range of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that spans several feet around a wood-burning ethanol fireplace area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in a traditional room.
The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone is available in a variety of colors that include light browns as well as creams. It can be utilized to complement a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can be able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your clients want an icy tone, consider Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of white, grey and blue. This granite is stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean to keep the space looking stunning.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated seven of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it extremely difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under stress granites are able to endure a lot of stress without being damaged. This is the key reason why granite structures last for centuries.
Steel
A steel surround for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look works with many types of decor and it is very easy to maintain. You can use it alone or combine it with other materials such as wood for a more traditional look.
A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is particularly beneficial for fireplaces using gas.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in various styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are polished and brushed for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide some contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature a simple design or a step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround that does not have mantel. This is usually cheaper and is ideal for smaller rooms where a large surround may overwhelm the space.
It is important to take into account the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround is located away from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend past the front of the hearth (which wouldn't be safe or look nice). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, then you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.