5 Laws That Can Benefit The Fireplace Surrounds Industry

Choosing Fireplace Surrounds That Match Your Interior Design Style

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

Brick is one option that can fit into 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 can be an extremely important piece of furniture as it creates a focal point within the room and breaks walls that might otherwise be blank. A wooden surround also makes it easier to hang decorations for the holidays. Pine surrounds can be used to hang wreaths and garlands, and they are easily removed after the holiday season.

When selecting a wood fireplace surround, it is important to choose one that matches the style of your home. Wooden surrounds come in a range of styles and finishes that fit any decor from contemporary to traditional. There are a myriad of options for size and design. Some fireplace surrounds are flat and placed directly against the wall. Some are designed as mantels that are set away from the wall.

The most well-known type of tabletop fireplace surround made from wood is oak, which is known for being both an extremely durable and beautiful material. It is a strong, dense timber that is impervious to shrinkage, warping and swelling. It is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which helps to shield it from fungal attack and damage.

Oak veneers and pine are also available as wood fireplace surrounds. Both materials are reasonably priced and are typically sold as complete surrounds, which include the hearth and back panels. These are available from a number of home and DIY stores. Online retailers such as Pureglow sell them frequently.

When purchasing a wood fireplace surround, it's important to keep in mind that it should be located at a certain distance from the opening of the firebox to ensure safety. The distance is by determining the clearance for fire hazards requirements based on codes regulations, laws and regulations for your area.

Stone

A stone fireplace surround is a fantastic way to create a warm and rustic look to your home. It's not just a way to blend into the style of your interior but it can also increase the value of your home. Some studies have shown that a well-designed fireplace could help you sell your house faster and at an increased price.

There are a variety of types of stone that can be used to create your fireplace's surround, such as marble and granite. Both are durable and will last for a long time with little maintenance. Additionally they are usually less expensive than wood.

While natural stone is somewhat more expensive than other materials, it provides a high quality of durability and beauty that is worth the cost. You can choose between different colors, patterns, and textures to create an original style for your home. You can opt to have a custom fireplace surround made of natural stone. This will make it a unique design element.

Stone surrounds are ideal for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures and do not shrink or crack when exposed to heat. They are also resistant to stains, scratches and abrasions. Granite, for instance is one of the most popular and affordable options for a fireplace surround. It is non-porous, scratch resistant and abrasion resistant to chemicals that could otherwise harm other surfaces.

One drawback of a stone fireplace surround is that it can be difficult to clean. The crevices, as well as the concrete joints between the stones can become a trap for household dirt. Cleaning your fireplace regularly is essential to prevent any buildup that could result in a health problem or fire risk.

Marble

Marble is a lux material that transforms any fireplace into an impressive centerpiece. The stunning 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 work well in open floor plans, adding elegance and class to the space while providing cohesion between different zones.

Like other materials, marble is impervious to heat, meaning it will not change color or warp as the fireplace gets hotter. It also helps to insulate the heat, helping to keep the room warm even after the fireplace has been removed. Marble is available in a myriad of colors and finishes so you're sure to find the ideal option to match your style.

If you decide to install a fireplace that is made of marble you should 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 sophisticated look. Darker marbles, like the rich swirls seen in this home designed by Tamsin Johnson, work with earth tones and more casual styles.

Be prepared to do some extra maintenance if you choose marble fireplace. Marble is more prone to staining than other materials and requires frequent sealing to preserve its appearance. It is also important to wipe the marble down frequently to avoid etching or water stains. There are marble cleaning products available. However, you should test them first in a discreet area before using them to clean your marble surround. If you're not comfortable committing to constant maintenance, consider granite as an economical alternative.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that can be used to provide a stunning accent in any fireplace. It's a durable rock that resists wear and tear and holds up to extreme temperatures, making it a perfect choice for fireplaces. It's also a non-combustible material, which helps keep the area surrounding the fire safe from the ash and other debris that might fall and harm the surface.

Your customers can pick from a variety of granite color options to personalize their fireplace surrounds. For a striking appearance take a look at black and white swirls that can complement the geometric form of a modern-style gas fireplace. Alternatively, a marbled granite surround that extends several feet around the frame of a fireplace with wood burning can create a single wall feature in a traditional living space.

The classic look of limestone is an excellent option for any home. It comes in a range of shades that include light browns as well as creams. It can be used to complement a wide variety of styles and design themes. It is resistant against heat and can resist smoke from burning wood. However, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent water penetration and staining.

If your clients prefer a cooler tone, try Baracuda Blue granite that has oceanic ripples of blue gray and white. It looks stunning next to a roaring fireplace and is easy to maintain.

Granite is an igneous rock derived from magma. It has superior strength and durability. It's rated seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it's very difficult to chip or scratch. Granites can withstand enormous amounts of pressure without breaking or cracking. This durability is an important factor that enables granite structures to remain in place for a long time.

Steel

A fireplace surround made of steel is a great way to add modern style to your home. Its neutral look is easy to maintain and blends with many different types of decor. You can use it alone or pair it with other materials like wood to create a more traditional appearance.

A metal surround can be beneficial to prevent draft issues. It creates a tighter space for combustion, which can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the flue. This is especially beneficial for gas-powered fireplaces.

Steel fireplace surrounds come in a variety of styles and finishes. Some steel fireplace surrounds are brushed and polished for an elegant appearance. Others have rougher textures that add contrast to the space. The type of steel you pick will depend on your preferred aesthetic and the color scheme you have chosen for your space.

Some surrounds made of steel have mantels that can be used to display ornamental items such as pots or plants. Mantel designs can differ but most have simple or stepped designs to add dimension to your fireplace.

You can also install the surround alone, without the mantel. This is typically less costly and is best for smaller spaces, where the large surround can overwhelm the space.

It is important to consider the dimensions of your hearth and chimney breast when you are installing the new surround. This will help ensure that the surround is a safe distance from the fireplace opening and doesn't extend beyond the front of the hearth (which would not be safe or look good). If you're planning to install a combustible surround, you'll have to take into consideration local codes and regulations. A professional can help you on this.