Fireplaces not only bestow exceptional ambiance upon your home but also serve as a valuable heat source in cooler regions, potentially leading to savings on your heating expenses. Even if your home currently lacks a fireplace, rest assured that installing one is entirely feasible. However, before proceeding, it’s essential to become acquainted with the various types of fireplaces available.
Fireplaces transcend mere aesthetics; they offer decorative allure, infuse warmth, and contribute significant value to your living space. We actively encourage our clients to embrace the decorative and warming benefits fireplaces provide, as we offer homeowners the chance to enhance their residences with efficient fireplace solutions.
In this article, we’ll provide some guidance on how to incorporate a fireplace into your house. While undertaking a fireplace installation independently can be challenging, we highly recommend engaging chimney and fireplace specialists for tasks such as gas fireplace servicing. They can expertly guide you through a three-step process: inspection, consultation, and installation.
Choosing the Ideal Fireplace for Your Home
When selecting the perfect fireplace for your residence, it’s crucial to first determine the type of fireplace you desire. There are distinct categories of fireplaces, each differing in terms of features and cost. To aid your decision-making, we’ve summarized the main types of fireplaces. Currently, gas fireplaces stand out as the most popular choice.
Three Types of Fireplaces
Before introducing the comfort and coziness that homeowners universally adore into your living space, it’s vital to understand these three primary types of fireplaces:
- Masonry wood-burning fireplaces
- Gas fireplaces
- Zero-clearance fireplaces
Masonry Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Masonry wood-burning fireplaces possess a classic, antique aesthetic, and they are typically quite expensive. A true masonry fireplace is constructed with a framework of cement blocks, encompassing the firebox, flue, and chimney. In two-story homes, options for fireplace placement might be somewhat restricted, yet it’s usually possible to locate the 12- to 14-inch (approximately 30-35 cm) space required for a masonry wood-burning fireplace.
Masonry wood-burning fireplaces are composed of a brick or stone firebox and chimney, and commonly feature a wooden mantel. Before acquiring a masonry wood-burning fireplace, key considerations include the size of the fireplace, the type of fuel you intend to use, and the installation process. Despite their cost, these fireplaces are very common and boast considerable beauty.
Gas Fireplaces
Gas fireplaces rank among the most popular types of home heating appliances due to their ease of use and installation. These units leverage natural gas or propane to generate heat and flame, earning them EPA certification for indoor air quality.
You can simplify your life with the effortless beauty of an indoor gas fireplace. These fireplaces can be integrated into your home for decorative purposes, imbuing your living space with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Installation of a gas fireplace generally takes around a day to a day and a half, as the process can be quite involved. Once installed, the fireplace must be connected to the gas supply line, where it consumes a fraction of the fuel. These fireplaces also tend to be highly reliable, often boasting a longer lifespan compared to other types.
There are three primary categories of gas fires: open hearth, closed hearth, and direct venting. You can select any of these based on your specific needs and preferences.
Furthermore, gas fireplaces ignite with the simple flip of a switch and are straightforward to clean and maintain. Should you require gas fireplace cleaning or repair services, we recommend contacting a fireplace repairman from High’s Chimney at 301-519-3500.
Zero-Clearance Fireplaces
If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly fireplace option, consider a zero-clearance fireplace or a built-in fireplace. These are lightweight units with a linear design, catering to more contemporary tastes.
Significantly, when compared to masonry fireplaces, zero-clearance fireplaces are much easier to install and demand considerably less construction work. They offer remarkable versatility, capable of being installed in virtually any room, even directly over hardwood floors and just inches away from existing walls.
Most zero-clearance fireplaces utilize electric or gas logs, which can be purchased, stored, and replaced much like a regular appliance.
If you are still drawn to a traditional fireplace that will infuse character and elegance into your home, masonry wood-burning fireplaces remain the premier choice. However, if space is a premium and you prioritize value for money, a gas fireplace should be considered. They are easy to install and maintain, and they offer efficient heating capabilities.
How to Add a Fireplace to Your House
Now that you possess a clearer understanding of the different types of fireplaces and their features, it’s time to learn the steps involved in adding a fireplace to your house.
The three essential steps you should follow to install a fireplace in your home are:
- Inspection
- Consultation
- Installation
1. Inspection
Before commencing any project, it is crucial to conduct an internal inspection of your house. This initial step will help you accurately determine the appropriate size and type of fireplace that will best integrate into your home’s structure.
2. Consultation
Once you’ve made a decision regarding the type of fireplace and its desired features, you must consult with a professional fireplace repair specialist. They will be able to guide you through all the necessary installation steps, ensuring the entire process unfolds smoothly and efficiently.
3. Installation
Finally, after all preliminary preparations have been completed, the actual installation will proceed in the designated space within your home. A professional fireplace repairman from High’s Chimney will arrive at your residence to install the fireplace precisely according to your specifications.