home fireplace design 2017

Use a Fireplace Surround to Revitalize and Refresh Your Home

When entering a family or friends home, one of the first things guests tend to focus on is the appearance of a homeowner's living room. Based on design, color, and decor, individuals can gain insight into a homeowner's personality and taste just by acknowledging these interior details. Therefore, it is essential to take into account every minor detail of one's living space, including larger attractions such as furniture, carpet, and the presence of a fireplace. While some families use their home fireplace for its intended purpose, others aim to use it as the focal point of a room to create space and depth.

In general, the majority of home fireplaces look the same. One of the few qualities that separates them from each other is the quality, size, and makeup of chosen fireplace surrounds. Also casually known as mantels, fireplace surrounds provide each home fireplace with a unique look based on how well it coordinates with the design of the room in which it is located. When considering what type of fireplace surround to purchase, one should choose a design and color that matches the room in which it is located or the decor of the rest of the house. Potential buyers should also determine a price range before even looking at their options in order to avoid over-spending.

Many types of fireplace surrounds are made of some form of wood variety. While deep mahogany may add a rich look to the fireplace, a lighter oak may work better in a temporary design setting. If customers are unsure of what color they wish to select, many manufacturers offer general, unfinished forms. These surrounds can also be made of marble to create a more elegant look. In addition to optional colors, many of fireplace surround types vary in architectural design. Some involve intricately-carved detail, yet others are based on a more modern look features smooth curves and definite edging. Also, some of the more affordable options merely consist of a general mantel in the buyer's choice of finish, while more expensive versions can be custom-ordered and produced to meet unique specifications and requests.

Oftentimes, the company through which one purchases a fireplace surround offers the option of professional installation. However, this installation may come with additional labor and travel costs. If you are the type of individual who would rather pay extra for convenience, then selecting home delivery and installation may be the choice for you. Yet, other individuals prefer to transport and install their fireplace surround personally. In this situation, there are a few general concepts that individuals should follow when installing their fireplace surround. To begin with, pre-existing mantels should be covered with painter's tape. Homeowners should then proceed to mix the mortar and apply it with a concrete trowel, smoothing the surface and allowing it to sit overnight. Another thin layer of mortar in the morning can be used to secure individual tiles or connected, whole fireplace surround. Usually these surrounds set in two to three hours in desirable conditions. Use of a sealer may also be an option in order to avoid discoloration and enhance the overall look of the fireplace surround.

In addition to choosing a fireplace surround, homeowners should also take great care in picking out a matching fireplace grate. Generally, grates are available in cast iron, concrete, stone, and stainless steel materials. While cast iron is the popular choice for enjoying an open fire, stone grates can create a modern look with its sleek nature. Furthermore, stainless steel adds a modern look and can retain additional heat through the practice of heating stones in a in a stainless steel bowl.