FIREPLACES

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Fireplaces are installed for many reasons. Some use them for recreational or entertaining purposes; some for a backup heating system or decorative enhancement. Fireplaces being used as supplemental heating will get the most use and a higher quality (and more often than not, more expensive) unit. Higher quality fireplaces are the best choice because they will offer greater efficiency and usually are more attractive.  Fireplace designers recommend low-end, builder-grade fireplaces for occasional or recreational fires, such as entertaining or family gatherings. If you anticipate using it once a week or more during the winter, choose a higher-end model that will last for years because replacements are costly and time consuming.

Before purchasing your new fireplace here are some questions that will help you decide what kind of fireplace you want:

            What features do you want?
            Can your home accommodate the required venting needs?

Do you have adequate space for the fireplace and the needed framing and hearth required by the model?

What hearth and surround design do you want to use?

What style of mantel meets the clearance requirements?

Shop at a business where fireplace knowledge is available.

Wood-burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces put the most restraint on the design. The chimney system must run vertically, clear the roof by local code which is usually 3 feet. These systems can be more dependent on the roof pitch and the home design. They should be placed near a door to the outside. This makes bringing in wood and taking out ashes easier. There is a greater requirement for the hearth to protrude into the room and for side and top clearances. Choose high-end, energy efficiency fireplaces which have tightly sealing doors for long burn time, more heat and cleaner burning, and upgraded designs for high heat output or it could lose more heat than it produces. Open-front, decorative fireplaces are banned in some areas that are prone to air quality problems.
A good supplier of firewood and space to store it is needed. The type of wood to be burned and how it is stored and cared for greatly affect wood burning. A wood-burning fireplace is best left to the professional to install.

Gas Burning Fireplaces

Gas burning fireplaces offer a convenient, realistic flame at the touch of a button. It has remote control devices. Many have thermostat controls to adjust the flame or turn it off or on. Venting options allow installation in any room on any floor. There are a variety of styles, sizes, designs and venting options. Every model from every manufacturer is different. Check the installment requirements carefully. These fireplaces are designed to burn natural gas or liquid propane (which can be stored in a tank somewhere else on your property). Installment requires the services of a licensed plumber or HVAC technician. Check the local building codes before running gas lines and installing. This is also a job for the pros.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fires are very popular now. They have 100% efficiency, require no venting and can go anywhere in your home. Designs run from small to large, traditional to contemporary. Most include a heater that provides plenty of warmth for small areas. There are no special requirements and can be done by do-it-yourselfers.

Plan Your Project

Draw on a piece of paper the accurate measurements. Create a template on the floor and wall to visually see the amount of space needed for installation and how close furniture will be placed. Get the proper permits from your local planning and building department. After the final inspection sit back and enjoy your new fireplace. You have just made a great investment in your homes value.