Responsible For The Fireplace Surrounds Budget 12 Ways To Spend Your Money
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
Whether you have an electric fires or wood burning fireplace, the right surround can really make the space. The right surround to match your style of interior isn't always easy.
Brick can be used in contemporary, rustic or farmhouse style homes. It's also a great option for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A wood fireplace surround is a crucial piece of furniture since it provides an accent piece for the room and also breaks up walls that would otherwise be empty. A wooden 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 is over.
It is essential to match the style of your house when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden fireplace surrounds can be found in a range of styles and finishes that suit any style from contemporary to traditional. There are many designs and sizes to choose from. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed flush against the wall. Others are designed to be an elongated mantel that is set away from the wall.
The most well-known type of fireplace surround made of wood is oak and it is renowned for being beautiful and durable. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to warping, shrinkage, and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means that 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 these include oak veneers and pine. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds that include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of home and DIY stores. They are also commonly sold by online retailers such as Pureglow.
When buying a wood fireplace surround it is important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the fireplace to ensure safety. The distance is determined in accordance with the fire hazard clearance specifications based on codes, regulations and laws for your area.
Stone
A stone fireplace surround is a great option to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It not only blends in with your style of interior design but it can also increase the value of your home. A few studies have demonstrated that a well-designed fireplace can assist you in selling your home more quickly and at a higher price.
You can pick from a range of stones for your fireplace surround. They include marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it offers a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround built with natural stone, making it a one-of-a-kind design element.
Stone surrounds are a great choice for gas and wood fireplaces. Stone surrounds resist high temperatures, and don't crack or warp when exposed to temperatures that are high. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for instance, is one of the most sought-after and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is scratch resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals that could otherwise damage other surfaces within the home.
One drawback of the stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can hold household dirt. It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace to avoid any accumulation that could cause the risk of a fire or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can transform any fireplace into an eye-catching centerpiece. The stunning stone can be used in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional, which makes it easy to find an elegant marble surround that works with your interior decor. Marble fireplaces work well in open floor plans, introducing elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat, so unlike other materials it won't change color or shrink when the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps insulate heat, which helps keep the space warm even after the fireplace has gone out. Marble is available in a variety of colors and electric fireplace finishes, so you're sure to find the perfect option to fit your style.
If you're going with a marble fireplace (Read Home ) you'll need to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless choice for neutral tones. It can be combined with wood trim and accent pieces to create a classy style. Darker marbles, like the swirls 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 can be more prone to staining than other materials, and requires regular sealing to keep its beauty. You'll also need to clean it regularly to prevent water and etching stains. Fortunately, there are special marble cleaning products available on the market that you can use, but be careful to test them in a hidden area prior to using them on your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite as an economical alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that can be used to add a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a tough stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up to high temperatures, making it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the area around the fire safe from ash or other debris that could fall on the surface and cause damage to it.
You can provide your customers with the possibility of a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance think about black and silvery white swirls that complement the geometric form of a modern-designed gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround extending several feet around the frame of a wood-burning fireplace can be a perfect wall focal point in a traditional living room.
The classic look of limestone is a wonderful option for any home. This stone is light browns and creams, which can be incorporated into a variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
If your customers want a cooler tone try Baracuda blue granite. It has oceanic ripples in shades of grey, white and blue. This granite is stunning in a fireplace and is easy to maintain.
Granite is an solid rock that's formed by magma, which is why it naturally possesses greater durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it extremely difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This is the main reason why granite structures can last for many centuries.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace is a great feature for any home. Its neutral appearance works well with many types of decor and is easy to maintain. You can use it on its own or mix it with other materials, such as wood to create a traditional appearance.
A metal surround can also be used to help with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds are available in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed to give a more elegant look, while others have a rougher surface to add contrast to a room. The kind of steel you select will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have selected for your space.
Some surrounds made of steel include a mantel which can be used to display ornamental items such as pots 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 the surround alone, without mantel. This option is typically 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 essential to take into consideration the size of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth and is situated at a safe distance from the fireplace opening. If you are planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can advise you on this.