Last week I was in the checkout line at a local big box store, the cashiers were having a back and forth about fireplaces. Molly was telling Betty that her fireplace installation was almost finished. Betty came back with “you’re crazy girl Florida is way to hot for a fireplace, fireplaces are only for up north”. I am on Molly’s side I love a fireplace it adds character, charm and of course warmth to your home, but it also adds value.
There are multiple types of fireplaces, wood burning, gas, electric. Mantle or no mantel, tile, brick, stone, marble surround, your choices are endless. They can be wall mounted or free standing. Also outdoor fireplaces are gaining popularity, installing an outdoor fireplace can expand your living area and create a gathering space. If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space a chimenea is a great option, it’s an inexpensive freestanding fireplace.
So how do you choose a fireplace?
In order to choose a fireplace that is appropriate for your home and budget, there are several questions you need to think about. Your fireplace may be the focal point of a favorite gathering spot in your home, or it may be the key to heating a new addition to your home, whatever the use, it is certain to affect your home’s valve.
Answering these questions will help you choose the best fireplace for your home:
Where do you want to have the fireplace installed?
How much would you like to spend?
Do you want your fireplace to look impressive, heat your home or both?
If you want to heat your home, how far do you want that heat to reach?
How much do you want to regularly spend on fuel, and what types of fuel are readily available to you?
How will the fireplace style you are considering blend with the design elements already in your home?
Following are some of the more popular fireplace options for existing homes and new construction.
Fireplace inserts are an excellent way to rehab a
non-working fireplace and restore to your home the warmth and charm that a fireplace offers. A fireplace insert is made from cast iron or steel and is designed to fit inside an existing masonry or prefabricated wood-burning fireplace. Fireplace inserts can burn a variety of fuels including pellets, coal, gas propane and certain woods. Fireplace inserts feature insulated glass doors that offer a view of the flames but help make the fire burn more efficiently. Features include a blower that will help circulate the heat from the fire back into your home, thermostat controls or even a remote control are available so you won’t have to leave the comfort of your couch in the middle of a great movie to adjust the flames.
Another option is a vent-free firebox which is a fireplace unit that is designed to be used with a gas log set. You can create a fireplace update that is truly unique by selecting each element of your fireplace individually. Start with a firebox, add a gas log set, then move on to accessories like blowers, glowing embers, mantels and more.
Gas fireplaces require fuel that must continually be purchased and requires regular inspections. There are gas fireplaces that are portable, you can designate a spot for it in your living room and your master bedroom, moving it whenever you choose which is a nice feature.
Wood-burning fireplaces require more maintenance, Chopping or buying wood, hauling and storing wood, building the fire, cleaning out the ashes.
Electric fireplace design has come a long way in the last 30 years. Sleek new designs that produce 4,800 to 5,000 BTUs of heat offer simple installation, fireplace efficiency and low maintenance. If fireplace cost is an issue for you, then you may want to consider an electric fireplace because of its economical operating cost.
Fireplace Safety Tips for any type of fireplace
Have your new fireplace installed by a professional.
Make sure your home is equipped with a smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Equip your home with a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it.
Keep flammable materials three feet away from the fire and heat source.
Never burn anything in a fireplace that the manufacturer hasn’t approved. Never ever burn plastic or Styrofoam.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.
Check to be sure that the fire is completely out or gas/electric has been turned off before you leave the house or go to sleep.
Read and follow manufacturer’s safety and maintenance instructions for your particular fireplace.
Depending on the design of your home, your
budget and your personal tastes, you can choose a classic fireplace design or you can go with a more modern look. The modern fireplace designs are particularly well suited for contemporary homes, condominiums and townhouses.
You can raise any room to a whole new level of sophistication with a stainless steel fireplace installed below your plasma screen television or give your master bedroom the ultimate romantic touch.
Fireplaces are a lifestyle choice and there is something for everyone, yes even those who live in Florida. Black Sand Construction can help you choose and install the right fireplace for your home and budget, just give us a call.