Thinking about how you can implement natural stone elements into your current home decor? One of the best natural stone applications for your home is the fireplace surround. Whether you currently have a brick or metal surround, consider replacing it with beautiful granite or marble natural stone applications to give your living area a face lift.
Some popular hearth surround ideas include marble, slate and granite. These materials can come in longer slabs or as tiles. When choosing tiles or slabs, consider the overall proportions of the fireplace, hearth and mantle so that you can create a pleasing effect. Also consider whether you prefer to have the fireplace completely redone, or simply refaced with a natural stone veneer. Choosing a stone type is largely a matter of preference. Marble is widely recognized as being both beautiful and delicate, while granite is durable and widely available in a variety of styles. Other stone materials, such as limestone, are quite porous and require regular sealing and maintenance.
If completed properly, a well maintained stone hearth surround will last a lifetime. Proper maintenance includes regular cleaning and resealing, as needed. Natural stone, although naturally durable, will stain when constantly exposed to dust, soot and ash. Be sure to use a stone cleaner specifically formulated for the type of stone you’ve chosen, and use a soft cloth to apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions.
At The Edge Countertops we’ll make sure to seal the stone at installation, but you will need to keep it clean and reseal it whenever needed. There is a simple test you can do to figure out when it’s time to reseal: simply sprinkle a few drops of water over the freshly cleaned stone, and if the water beads up, the seal is still intact. If the stone absorbs the water, it’s time to reseal. Before applying sealer, wait for the stone to dry completely.
A natural stone hearth surround is a very elegant yet simple way to update your home. For more information call us or click here for a free quote.