How to Choose the Right Fireplace for Your Home?

Posted by Armstrong Louis on August 10th, 2018

The burning of wood creates an ambience which is often described as magical; even mystic. The crackling sounds, the smoky smell, the endearing warmth and the fleeting incandescence make us wonder and keep us lost in our thoughts as we stare into the flame. This awakens the latent philosopher in us.

A substance with such metaphysical conjectures has inspired mankind since the day ‘fire’ was discovered. Therefore, it is only natural that people want to keep this connection intact by installing fireplaces in their houses. Depending entirely on individual requirement and taste, fireplaces can be assembled using local goods, or for more premium feel, one can procure a high-end fireplace from a reputed fireplace installation services provider. (Information Credit – https://www.theoriginalflame.com)

There are many types of fireplaces. These are differentiated mainly on the basis of fuel used. Some of these are:

• Gas Fireplaces
• Wood Fireplaces
• Electric Fireplaces

However, considering the different types of fireplaces, only the Wood type fireplace can offer an experience which is truly authentic. To explore this authentic experience, there are several options to consider before getting a wood fireplace.

The decision-making process does not stop as soon as you choose a wood fireplace, rather it starts there. Here are a few factors to consider:

Style: Most of the fireplaces are factory built with some last minute modifications added as per as the customers’ needs. There is a whole palette of designs according to which, a fireplace can be styled. You can have a glass-sliding fireplace which is great for visibility. Or, you can opt for a traditional arch-shaped fireplace. You can also choose from various types of building materials, like tiles, bricks or stones.

Size and Ventilation: This choice depends wholly on the dimensions of the room and the overall house. A fireplace too big for an average room will result in overheating and suffocation! Ventilation is a key factor because it will decide the flow of air throughout the house. This will help the inflow of the air to distribute the heat evenly and outflow of the air, which helps in clearing the fumes and residual un-burnt air-borne particles.

Installation & Maintenance: Always hire a certified professional to install the fireplace. Expertise in the field will help avert major fire hazard.

Also, get the fireplace thoroughly cleaned at least twice a year. Or, spring cleaning by any professional cleaning service, once a year. 

Features and Cost: There will be a difference in the available features for the traditional fireplace and a new EPA-approved fireplace. Newer fireplaces will have systems like self-cleaning modules including grates, glass doors, circulation systems and auto-ash removal system. Quite understandably, the cost will be higher than traditional fireplaces. This difference in price is compensated as the saved maintenance charges. The prices will vary for different manufacturers, styles of fireplace and efficiency regarding maintenance.

Wooden fireplaces are customized according to your requirements. You must know specifically what you are looking for. Therefore, it is strongly advised to research the available units of fireplaces in the market.