A Relevant Rant About Fireplace Surrounds
Wiki Article
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 home regardless of whether you have an electric or wood-burning fireplace. But choosing a surround that matches 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 option for homeowners with a limited budget, since it can be easily painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and can break up a wall which might otherwise be blank. A surround made of wood makes it easier to hang holiday decor. Pine surrounds, in particular, can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are then easily removed once the festive season has ended.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor, from traditional to contemporary. There are also a variety of options in terms of size and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat design that is set flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel and are positioned away from it.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is renowned for being an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a solid thick and dense wood that is resistant to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. This protects against damage caused by fungi and fungus.
Other kinds of fireplace surrounds made of wood are available and these include pine and oak veneers. Both materials are relatively cheap and are typically sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold by online retailers like Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround, it is crucial to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the firebox opening to ensure safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for the area you live in.
Stone
A fireplace with a stone surround can provide an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can increase the value of your home, as it is not only a part of with your style, but also matches it. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace can help you sell your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stone options for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. They are also often cheaper than hardwood.
Although natural stone might be somewhat more expensive than other materials, it comes with an exceptional quality of durability and beauty that is worth the investment. You can pick from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your home. You can choose to have a custom-made fireplace surround made of natural stone. This makes it an original design element.
Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Stone surrounds are resistant to high temperatures, and do not crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. They are also resistant to stains and scratches. Granite is a popular and affordable choice for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be difficult and time-consuming to clean. The crevices and joints made of concrete between the stones can trap household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup that could lead to an illness or fire risk.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to a standout centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in different styles, ranging from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, bringing elegance and sophistication to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is heat resistant and, unlike other materials, it won't change color or become warped as the fire gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, which helps keep the area warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace you'll need to select a color that complements other elements of design in the room. White marble is a classic choice for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated appearance. Darker marbles such as the ones featured in this house by Tamsin Johnston are great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose a marble fireplace. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and it requires regular sealing to keep its appearance. It is also necessary to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaners available. However, you should test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, making it a great option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material which helps to keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that could fall and cause damage to the structure.
You can offer your clients the possibility of a variety of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. Consider swirls of white and black to match the geometric design of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends for several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create an eye-catching focal point on the wall of an old-fashioned room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone features light browns and creams, which can blend with a variety of design themes and styles. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand the smoke of burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.
If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue grey and white. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking gorgeous.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It's rated 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's extremely difficult to chip or scratch. Contrary to other natural stones which break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without causing damage. This is a crucial factor that enables granite structures to remain intact for a long time.
Steel
A fireplace surround made of steel is a great option to add modern style to your home. Its neutral design works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or combine it with other materials such as wood for a classic appearance.
A metal surround is useful to reduce draft issues. It creates a more tightly-packed space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes down the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds come in UK Fireplaces various styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have rougher textures that provide an element of contrast to the space. The kind of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items such as vases or plants. The design of the mantel can be different but most come with a simple or stepped design to give a more dimensional look to your fireplace.
You can also install an only a surround, with or without the mantel. This option is typically less expensive and works well for smaller rooms where a large surround may take over the room.
When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration 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 doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can give you suggestions on this.