Building a new fireplace where there is not already a fireplace recess is something that not many people attempt to do in an existing home, however building in a fireplace can elevate the look of your home as well as provide heating throughout. They can make a lot of difference aesthetically as compared to simply a free-standing box with a circular chimney flue extending to the roof. Although it is the pricier option to build in a wood fireplace yourself, it can also be very rewarding. Plus, this new fireplace can add value to your home. So, what tips do we have for installation a fresh, new, inbuilt fireplace? Read on and see…
1. First things first: wood burning or gas?
The type of material that is your fuel will dictate how your fireplace needs to be built. With a wood burner, you’ll need a brick or stone housing and chimney to do the job. You can also purchase wood burning boxes that are fully enclosed, known as zero-clearance fireplaces. The box itself feels cool to the touch, so you don’t have to worry too much about the surrounds. They’ll have that metal cylinder as a flue, which can be hidden within a wall cavity. A gas fireplace will be prebuilt, and be similar to a zero-clearance wood box in that the outer is cool to the touch, it can be placed pretty much anywhere, and it just needs that metal flue.
2. Enclosed or non-enclosed?
The vast majority of fireplaces nowadays are enclosed, meaning the fire itself is in a box. There are always exceptions, like new open wood fires, and open gas fires that mimic the look of real wood. If there is any chance that you’ll have small children around, either your own or visitors, it is always a better option to choose a closed fireplace – and one that is cool to the touch. This way you can avoid little exploratory fingers getting burned. Plus if you’re a bit clumsy yourself, then you’re less likely to get accidentally burned as well. A self-starting enclosed gas fire that is cool to the touch from the outer is the safest type of fireplace to prevent burns from occurring.
3. Is it DIY?
Unless you’re a builder, chances are that this is not going to be a DIY job. There is a lot of complex work involved in fitting a fireplace and adding the venting. This job is best left to the professionals. Give some local builders a call, check out their experience with installing new fireplaces, and compare prices to see which one is going to be your preferred choice.
4. What do you want your hearth to look like?
One of the most appealing things about an inbuilt fireplace is the façade into your living area (or bedroom, whichever room you’re installing the fireplace in). The appearance of the outside and surrounds of your fireplace can elevate the look of your room and add a lot of character. Think about what design best fits the rest of your home, and which would look the best for your type of fireplace. You can get inspiration on home sites like Houzz, or have a wander through Pinterest checking out fireplaces.
Choosing to install a new wood fireplace isn’t exactly the smallest of jobs around the house. However, it is something that will last pretty much forever, keep you warmer in winter, and add value to the price of your home. Get it right, and you’ll be reaping the rewards for many years to come.
