How To Explain Fireplace Surrounds To A 5-Year-Old
Wiki Article
Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style
The right surround for your fireplace can make or break the look of the room 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 difficult.
Brick can be used in modern, rustic, or farmhouse-style homes. It's also a great choice for homeowners with a limited budget because it can be painted.
Wood
A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture, as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks a wall which might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround makes it easier to hang holiday decorations. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.
When choosing a wood fireplace surround, it's essential to choose one that is in keeping with the style of your home. Wooden surrounds are available in a range of styles and finishes to fit any style, from traditional to contemporary. There are a range of options available in terms of dimensions and design. For example, some fireplace surrounds come in a flat style and is flush with the wall, while others are designed to function as a mantel, and are positioned away from it.
The most popular kind of wood fireplace surround is oak, which is recognized as beautiful and durable. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from air, which helps to protect it against fungal attack and damage.
Oak veneers and pine are also available as fireplace surrounds. Both are fairly inexpensive and are usually sold as complete surrounds, with the hearth and back panel as well. They can be purchased at numerous DIY and home stores. They are also sold online by retailers like Pureglow.
It is crucial to remember that a wood surround must be placed at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for security. The distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements that are based on the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence.
Stone
A fireplace surround made of stone is a fantastic way to add a warm and rustic look to your home. It can enhance the value of your home, as it blends with your style, but also complements it. Certain studies have proven that a well-designed fireplace could assist you in selling your house faster and at more money.
You can choose from a variety of stone options for your fireplace's surround. These include granite and marble. Both are durable and will last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are also typically less expensive than hardwood.
While natural stone is a bit more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of beauty and durability that make it a worthwhile investment. You can choose from a wide selection of colors, patterns and textures to create the perfect style for your space. You can also choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, which makes it an exclusive design element.
Stone surrounds work well with gas and wood fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and don't shrink or crack when exposed to heat. Additionally, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and affordable alternatives for a fireplace surround. It is scratch-resistant, non-porous and resistant to chemicals which can harm other surfaces.
A stone fireplace surround can be time-consuming and difficult to clean. The concrete joints and crevices between the stones can trap household dirt. It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly to avoid any buildup that could lead to a fire hazard or health problem.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious and elegant material that turns any fireplace into a stunning focal point. Marble surrounds are available in a variety of styles from traditional to modern. Marble fireplaces are an excellent alternative to open floor plans. They can add style and class while also creating a sense of cohesion between the different zones.
Marble is resistant to heat and, unlike other materials, it will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also insulates the heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fireplace is gone. Marble comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the ideal option to fit your style.
If you're going with an elegant fireplace it is important to select the color that is compatible with other elements of design in the room. White marble is a timeless option for neutral tones. It can be paired with wood trim and accent pieces to create a sophisticated look. Darker marbles such as the ones in this home by Tamsin Johnston look great with earth tones and relaxed styles.
If you decide to opt for a fireplace in marble, be prepared for some additional maintenance. Marble can be more prone to stains than other materials, and requires regular sealing to maintain its beauty. You will also need to clean the marble regularly to avoid etching and water staining. There are marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a safe area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not sure about committing to a constant routine of maintenance, think about granite instead as an affordable alternative.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone option that can add an impressive accent to any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it a perfect option for fireplaces. It's also non-combustible. which makes the space around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could fall and damage its surface.
You can offer your clients an array of granite colors to choose from for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking look take a look at black and white swirls that will be a perfect match for the geometric shape of a modern gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a fire place can create a focal point on the wall of the traditional space.
The classic appearance of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a variety of shades, including light browns and creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant to heat and is able to withstand smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed regularly to avoid staining and water penetration.
If your clients prefer cooler tones, consider Baracuda Blue granite, which has oceanic ripples of blue white and grey. This granite looks amazing next to a glowing fire, and is easy to clean to keep the area looking beautiful.
Granite is an igneous rock that was formed from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven out of ten on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very difficult to scratch. Contrary to other natural stones that can break or crack easily under stress, granites are able to endure a lot of stress without causing damage. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to last for a long time.
Steel
A surround made of steel for your fireplace can be a wonderful feature for any home. Its neutral look works with a variety of decors and is incredibly easy to maintain. It can be used on its own or combine it with other materials like wood for a classic style.
A metal surround can be used to assist with problems with drafting. It provides a smaller space for combustion, which can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This can be especially useful for fireplaces that are gas-powered.
Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in various styles and finishes. Some are brushed or polished to give a more elegant look and others have a rougher surface to create a contrast in an area. The type of steel you here pick will depend on the style you prefer and the color scheme you've selected for your space.
Some steel surrounds include a mantel which can be used to display decorative items like vases or plants. The design of the mantel can vary but the majority of them have simple designs or a stepped design that adds dimension to your fireplace.
Alternately, you can opt to install a surround with no mantel. This option is usually less costly and is best for smaller rooms, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.
It is important to consider the size of your hearth and chimney breast when installing a new surround. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth, and is an appropriate distance from the fireplace opening. If you're using a combustible product for your surround, then you'll need to consider the codes and regulations applicable to your area of residence. A professional can offer guidance on this.