The Main Problem With Fireplace Surrounds, And How You Can Fix It

Choosing fireplace insert Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric firesuite or wood burning fireplace, choosing the right surround can make or break the space. Finding a surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.

Brick can be used in modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. And it's a great option for homeowners on a budget since it can be painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is an essential piece of furniture because it serves as a focal point for the room and breaks up a wall that may otherwise be blank. In addition, a wooden fireplaces surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang garlands and wreaths, and they are easily removed after the holiday season is over.

When selecting a fireplace surround, it's crucial to select one that matches the style of your home. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be bought in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor from traditional to modern. There are a variety of choices for design and size. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and set in a flush with the wall. Others are designed as an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.

The most sought-after wood used to build fireplace surrounds. It is sturdy and beautiful. It is a hard solid wood that is impervious to warping, swelling, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air. This helps to protect against fungus attack and damages.

Other types of fireplace surrounds made from wood are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both materials are relatively cheap and are usually sold as complete surrounds which include the hearth as well as back panels. They are available from several DIY and home stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow offer them regularly.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to remember that it must be positioned at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. This distance is determined by determining the clearance for fire hazards specifications based on codes or regulations as well as laws in the area you live in.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a great option to create an inviting and rustic look to your home. Not only does it blend in with your interior design style but it can also boost the value of your home. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could aid in selling your home more quickly and at an increased price.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, including granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with minimal maintenance. In addition, they are often cheaper than wood.

Although natural stone might be slightly more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of durability and beauty that makes it worth the investment. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace surround built with natural stone, creating unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are perfect for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and won't warp or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance is one of the most sought-after and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

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

Marble

Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning focal point. The beautiful stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find a marble surround that coordinates with your interior decor. Marble Fireplaces fireplaces work best in open floor plans, introducing elegance and sophistication to the space while bringing harmony between different zones.

Marble is heat resistant, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink as the fire gets hotter. It also insulates heat, which helps to keep the room warm even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a range of finishes and colors so you can find the most suitable design to suit your taste.

If you decide to go with a fireplace that is made of marble you should pick a color that is in harmony with the other design elements of the room. White marble is a classic option for neutral tones. It can be paired up with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy appearance. Darker marbles like the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.

If you decide to opt for a marble fireplace, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble is more susceptible to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its elegance. You will also need to clean your marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available on the market. But, you must test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to constant maintenance, consider granite instead as an affordable alternative.

Granite

Granite is an unnatural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, which makes it a great choice for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall and harm its surface.

You can offer your customers the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that will complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace that burns wood can create a single wall feature in a traditional living area.

Limestone is a different non-combustible choice with a classic style for any home. This stone is light browns grays, creams and greys that can blend with a variety of design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke from burning wood, but it is important to remember that limestone should be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue, gray and white. This granite looks stunning next to a roaring fire, and is easy to clean and keep looking stunning.

Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Unlike other natural stones, which can crack or break easily under stress granites are able to withstand immense amounts of stress without breaking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A steel surround for your fireplace is an excellent option for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other materials like wood for a more traditional look.

A metal surround is also beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that use gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in different styles and finishes. Some of the fireplace stove surrounds made of steel are brushed and polished for an elegant finish. Others have a rougher texture that adds contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be determined by your aesthetic preference and the color scheme you choose for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel have a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as vases or plants. Mantel designs can differ but the majority of them have a simple or stepped design to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also choose to install a surround only, without a mantel. This option is usually less expensive and works best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is crucial to consider the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will help ensure that the surround is safe away from the fireplace opening and that it doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you are using a combustible product for your surround, you'll have to consider the regulations and codes for your particular area of residence. A professional can provide advice on this.