10 Tell-Tale Warning Signs You Need To Get A New Fireplace Surrounds

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

No matter if you have an electric wall mounted fireplace or wood burning fireplace, the perfect surround can make or break the room. However, finding a fireplace surround that fits your interior style may be a bit tricky.

Brick is a popular option that is a good fit for modern, rustic or farmhouse-style homes. It's also an excellent choice for homeowners on a tight budget, since it can be easily painted.

Wood

A fireplace surround made of wood is a crucial piece of furniture because it creates a focal point for the room and breaks down walls that might otherwise be empty. Additionally, a wood 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 taken down after the holidays.

It is essential to be in line with the style of your home when choosing a surround made of wood for your fireplace. Wooden surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes that fit any decor from modern to traditional. There are a range of options available in terms of size and design. For instance some fireplace surrounds are in a flat design that is in a straight line with the wall while others are designed to act as a mantel and are positioned out from it.

Oak is the most well-known wood used for fireplace surrounds. It is durable and attractive. It is a solid, dense timber that is resistant to warping, shrinkage and swelling. It is also hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture from the air, so this helps to guard against fungal attack and damage.

Pine and oak veneers are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both of these materials are reasonably priced and are often sold in complete surrounds that have the hearth and back panel included. These are available from a number of DIY and home stores. Online retailers like Pureglow sell them frequently.

It is essential to keep in mind that a wood-lined surround needs to be placed a certain distance from the opening of the firebox for safety. This distance is determined by fire hazard clearance requirements which are based on the regulations and codes applicable to your area of residence.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic style to your home. Not only does it blend into your interior design style but it can also improve the value of your home. Some studies show that a beautifully constructed fireplace can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher value.

There are many kinds of stones can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long amount of time with little maintenance. Additionally they are generally less expensive than wood.

Natural stone is more expensive than other materials, but it has a higher level of durability and beauty, making it worth the investment. You can pick from a wide selection of patterns, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your space. You can even choose to have your fireplace's surround made from natural stone, making it an exclusive design element.

Stone surrounds are great for wood and gas burning free standing electric fireplaces. They can withstand high temperatures and do not break or warp when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to scratches and stains. Granite, for example, is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for a fireplace's surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback to the fireplace surround made of stone is that it is difficult to clean. The crevices and concrete joints between the stones could become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace on a regular basis is vital to avoid any buildup which could cause a health problem or fire hazard.

Marble

Marble is a luxurious, elegant material that transforms any fireplace into a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful stone works well in a variety of styles, from contemporary to traditional, so it's easy to find the perfect marble surround to go 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 will not change color or become warped when the fireplace gets hotter. It also is able to absorb heat, which helps keep the room warm even after the fire is out. Marble comes in a myriad of colors and finishes, so you're certain to find the ideal option that will suit your taste.

If you choose to install a fireplace that is made of marble it is important to choose a shade that complements the other design elements 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 ones in this house by Tamsin Johnston work well with earth tones and relaxed styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance when you select 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. There are many marble cleaning products on the market that you can use however, be sure to test them in an inconspicuous area prior to using them on your marble surround. Granite is an excellent alternative to marble for those who don't want to be a constant maintenance person.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone option that can provide a stunning accent to any fireplace. It's a sturdy stone that is resistant to wear and tear and stands up against high temperatures, which makes it an ideal option for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible stone which helps to keep the area around the fire safe from ash and other debris that could otherwise fall and damage the structure.

You can offer your customers a variety of granite colors for their fireplace surrounds. For a striking design take a look at black and white swirls that will enhance the geometric design of a modern-style gas fireplace. A marbled granite surround that extends several feet around a wood-burning fire area can create the perfect focal point for one wall in a traditional room.

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

If your customers prefer a cooler tone, go for Baracuda Blue granite with oceanic ripples of blue, white and grey. It looks stunning when placed next to a fire place and is easy to maintain.

Granite is a natural igneous rock, which is formed from magma. It naturally possesses exceptional durability and strength. It is rated seven out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it very difficult to scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This longevity is a key aspect that allows granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A steel fireplace surround is a great option to bring modern design to your home. Its neutral appearance is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can choose to use it by itself or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround is also useful in reducing draft issues. It creates a smaller area for combustion, which reduces the amount of heat that escapes through the flue. This is especially beneficial for fireplaces that run on gas.

Steel fireplace surrounds can be found in a variety of styles and finishes. Some are polished or brushed for a more elegant finish while others are rougher to create a contrast in the room. The type of steel you choose will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme that you have chosen for your space.

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

You can also put in the surround alone, without a mantel. This is usually less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where a large surround could overwhelm the space.

When installing a new surround, it is essential to take into consideration the dimensions of the hearth and chimney breast. This will ensure that the surround extends no beyond the front of the hearth, and is a safe distance from fireplace opening. If you're planning to install an ignitable surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can provide advice on this.