This Is The Ugly Real Truth Of Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

Whether you have an electric or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can transform the room. The right surround to match the style of your home isn't always easy.

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

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture since it provides a focal point to the room and breaks up walls that would otherwise be blank. Additionally, a wood surround makes it much easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds in particular can be used to hang garlands and wreaths. They can be easily removed when the festive season has ended.

It is important to match the style of your house when choosing a wood surround for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes to match any decor from modern to traditional. There are a range of options for dimensions and design. For example some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is flush with the wall, while others are designed to be an actual mantel and are set out from it.

The most well-known type of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is known for being both beautiful and durable. It is a dense solid wood that is impervious to swelling, warping, and shrinkage. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture in the air. This protects against fungus attack and damages.

Other kinds of wood fireplace stove surrounds are available, and include oak veneers and pine. Both are relatively inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panels included. These are available from several home and DIY stores. They are also sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.

When you purchase a fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located some distance from the opening of the firebox for safety reasons. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the regulations and codes applicable to the area you live in.

Stone

A fireplace surround made of stone can give an authentic and warm appearance to your home. It can enhance the value of your home because it not only blends in with your style, but also complements it. Some studies have shown that a well designed fireplace can help your home sell faster and at a greater price.

There are many types of stone that can be used for your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and can last for a long period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also generally less expensive than hardwood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of beauty and durability which is why it is a worthwhile investment. You can pick from a variety of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, making it unique design elements.

Stone surrounds are a great choice for both wood and gas fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't break or warp when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to stains and scratches. Granite, for instance, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any buildup that could lead to an hazard to fire or health hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious stone that elevates any fireplace to an eye-catching centerpiece. Marble surrounds come in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. 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 become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps to keep the surrounding area cozy even after the fire goes out. Marble comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can find the ideal match for your style.

If you decide to go with an open fireplace made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements of 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 ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston work well with earthy tones and more relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some additional maintenance if you decide to install marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing in order to maintain its beauty. You'll also have to clean it frequently to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaners on the market to use however, be sure to test them in a non-glaring spot before using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.

Granite

Granite is another natural stone option that can add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it an ideal option for fireplaces. It is also non-combustible, which makes the surrounding area of the ethanol fire safe from ash and other debris that might otherwise fall and harm its surface.

Your customers can pick from a range of granite colors to customize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design think about black and silvery white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire area can create a focal point on one wall in an old-fashioned room.

The classic appearance of limestone is a great option for any home. This stone features light browns, creams and grays that can be combined with many design themes and styles. It is abrasive to heat and can withstand smoke that comes from burning wood, however it's important to know that limestone needs to be regularly sealed to protect it from staining and water penetration.

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

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It is extremely strong and durability. It is rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to 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 key reason why granite structures can last for hundreds of years.

Steel

A fireplace suite surround made of steel is a great option to bring modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with a variety 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 also be used to assist with draft issues. It makes a smaller area for combustion, which decreases the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially useful for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in different styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant look. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the room. The type of steel you select will be determined by your style preference and the color scheme that you select for your room.

Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vase or plants. The design of the mantel is different, but most feature simple or step-style design that adds a dimension to your fireplace.

You can also put in the surround alone, without mantel. This option is usually cheaper and is ideal 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 does not extend further than the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll be required to look into local codes and regulations. A professional can provide guidance on this.