Fire surrounds are those architectural elements surrounding a fireplace offering safety and aesthetic benefits. These wooden surrounds are supplied in practically any type of wood you prefer like oak, cherry and maple. Any natural wood surround like oak fire surrounds which bring out the natural beauty, and are always the best choice for anything ornate or simple.
Fireplace surrounds are important as it offers additional layers of protection, making the fireplace more enjoyable and less dangerous. These are some of the features to consider while buying your fireplace surround:
- As fireplaces come in various heights and widths, don’t make the mistake of buying a fireplace surround without measuring your fireplace. While some people can tell if the mantel is the right size of not just by taking a look at it, not everyone possesses this gift. So to save yourself lots of time, frustration and money; measure the fireplace, including the hearth dimensions first before looking for your mantle.
- The next feature to consider is design. While chunky wooden mantels work great for large brick fireplaces, small fireplaces in bedrooms need something more demure. You have to decide if you want scrollwork or some other elements included in the overall design or just something clean and simple.
- Your oak fire surrounds must blend well with other architectural elements in your room and not make the room seem out of balance. So a small and relatively plain mantle is not meant for a room with elements like chair railing or ornate baseboards nor are mantles with curbed bunches of cherries meant for a contemporary room.
If you finally opt for oak fireplace surrounds for its durability, here is how you should clean and maintain them based on its finishes:
- In case of clear lacquer finish mantles clean using only a damp cloth. Do not spray on waxes as it only tarnishes the lacquer with time. In case of any damages, repairs can be easily made just by sanding out the damaged portion and then applying clear varnish to the bare wood.
- In case of waxed oak fireplaces, it requires regular re-waxing as the wax dries out with time. There are various types of waxes available which are all suitable for re-coating. The wax should be applied with a circular motion to penetrate the grain. Once dry to the touch, remove any excess wax using a soft cloth and buff to finish.
Once again, any damages can be repaired by sanding down the damage and applying a filler as required. Then apply wax to the area and let it dry. If required, a second coat may be applied.
- Oiled oak fire surrounds also require regular oil re-coatings using oil or similar products for optimum maintenance. Just be careful to choose oils as most oils are tinted, and may change the fire surround colour over time.
Repairs should be made by sanding with a heavy sand paper first and then using a fine sand paper for a smooth finish. Then apply your chosen oil using a soft cloth or paint brush and let it soak into the grain. When dry, wipe over using a clean cloth to finish.