Fireplaces have always been popular. And we can all agree that there is nothing quite like sitting in front of a fire on a cold winter night. You and your loved ones get to bask in its warmth while spending some time together talking or watching television.
Not only do they make great gathering spots, but fireplaces can also add a certain flair to a great room, living room, dining room or to an open kitchen. Below is a concise guide to choosing the perfect fireplace for your home. Happy reading!
The Types of Fireplaces You Can Choose from
Type 1: Wood-Burning Fireplace
Wood-burning fireplaces are the traditional wood-burning hearth that you often see in pictures or movies. Some people prefer this type of fireplace because the snapping and crackling of a roaring fire can be very romantic. The most common types of wood-burning fireplaces include:
- The traditional open hearth: It is typically made of stone or brick.
- The fireplace insert: This is an insert that can be simply slid into an existing fireplace opening.
- The enclosed fireplace: It is an enclosed fireplace that has a large glass panel so you can see the fire.
Type 2: Gas-Burning Fireplaces
Despite not having that authentic sound and smell of burning wood, gas-burning fireplaces are easier to manage than wood-burning fireplaces. The following are two types of gas-burning fireplaces you can choose from:
- Direct-vented built-in fireplaces: Can be installedthrough an existing or newly constructed chimney.
- Ventless built-in fireplaces: Does not need a chimney or vent.
Type 3: Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are probably the least like real fireplaces. They are modern and require no venting or chimney access. Types of electric fireplaces include:
- Mantel electric fireplaces: meant to mimic built-in wood-burning fireplaces.
- Electric fireplace TV stands & entertainment centers: This type of fireplaces is not that common, but does exist. These furniture units come equipped with electric fireplaces.
How to Choose a Style that Fits Your Budget and Décor
In addition to keeping you warm during the colder nights of the year, a fireplace also adds intangible value to your lifestyle. It creates a cozy ambiance and adds beauty to any room.
Below is a list of things you may want to consider before having one installed:
- If you are building a new house, remember to incorporate a fireplace early in the design stage
- Getting the proper measurement if you want to replace an existing fireplace
- The type of fireplace you want. For example, if you want a gas-burning fireplace ensure you have a gas supply to the fireplace.
- Choose the location wisely.
- Take your home style into consideration. For example, a modern fireplace will look better in minimalist décor.
Consider the Benefits and Drawbacks of Each Type of Fireplace:
Type 1: Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Pros of Getting a Wood-Burning Fireplace:
- The ambiance created by crackling logs and woodsy aroma is uncontestably calming and romantic.
- It is not electricity-dependent.
- You have the freedom to choose the type of firewood you burn, meaning you have full reign over the longevity of the fire and the aroma.
- There will be a higher amount of heat added to your home.
Cons of Having a Wood-Burning Fireplace Installed:
- Buying or chopping your own firewood.
- Set aside a place to store it, so it stays dry until you’re ready to burn it.
- It is generally unsafe as a fire can be re-sparked without you noticing.
- It requires annual maintenance.
- It is not efficient as there is always a risk of the damper not having been properly closed. If that happens, drafts will escape or enter through the chimney and will result in higher utility bills.
Type 2: Gas-Burning Fireplaces
Pros of Getting a Gas-Burning Fireplace:
- You don’t have to prepare the fireplace and wait for the wood to start burning properly. A switch, thermostat or even a remote control you can get the fire started immediately.
- It is efficient since it burns gas cleanly and creates more heat for a lower cost. You can also control heat emission with a thermostat.
- It does not require regular cleaning as there are no ash and soot left behind. It only requires annual maintenance or inspection to ensure that it is working properly.
- It is not dependent on electricity and can work perfectly fine even in the event of a power outage.
Cons of Having a Gas-Burning Fireplace Installed:
- The cost of installation can be high as a gas line must also be installed.
- It does not have the same effect as a genuine wood-burning fireplace. There is no aromatic smell emitted, for example.
Type 3: Electric Fireplaces
Pros of Getting an Electric Fireplace:
- It is the least expensive option.
- It can be easily installed.
- It is highly portable as it just needs to be plugged in.
- Perfect for small apartments.
Cons of Having an Electric Fireplace Installed:
- It will not work during a power outage.
- It is costly as it is completely reliant on electricity.
I am pleased that this post stressed that there are many different types of fireplaces for us to choose from. The other day my wife was looking at fireplaces for sale and she is thinking of adding one to the living room. As I believe a gas burner is the most efficient, I will surprise her with a gas burning fireplace.
It’s cool that you point out that a gas fireplace can continue to work during a power outage. I live in an area that experiences occasional power outages, so I’m considering buying a gas fireplace for my home. I’m going to see if there’s a good business in the area that can sell me a gas fireplace.
It’s great that you mention that has fireplaces are very low-maintenance. I’ve been thinking about getting a fireplace for my home, so a gas one sounds like it would be perfect. I’m going to look for a reputable business in the area that can sell me a gas fireplace.
Thanks for the advice about fireplaces. I want to get a fireplace for my home. I’ll meet with a professional to determine what kind of fireplace is right for my home.
Thanks for the information on the different types of fireplaces. I’ll share this with my cousin since she wants one installed in her living room. She’s tired of how cold it can get in the winter and feels like a fireplace will be a great way to make the room warm and cozy.
It’s great that you point out that gas fireplaces are very low-maintenance. I’ve always wanted to have a fireplace, so I’m thinking about buying a gas one for my home. I’m going to look for a reputable business that can sell me a gas fireplace.
I love that you talked about different types of fireplaces and their features. Recently, my wife and I moved into another city, and we’ve heard it gets really cold during the winter months. We love cold weather, and it’s the perfect opportunity for us to install the fireplace of our dreams, so we’ll be sure to read your piece carefully. Thanks for the information on how a gas-burning fireplace is easy to manage.
Thank you
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I want to make sure that my home is nicely heated, so I’m planning on getting a fireplace. It makes sense that I would want to get a professional to install one for me. I’ll make sure that it’s enclosed, because that seems like a good way to ensure that I don’t get smoke in my home.
I loved how you said that that gas fireplaces do not need a lot of cleaning. My sister was at my house for dinner last night, and she was telling me about how she and her husband want to look into getting a fireplace installed for their home, and she was wondering what type would be best to choose. I’ll make sure to pass this information along to her so that she can know the benefits of getting a gas fireplace!
I am glad that you talked about how wood burning fireplaces tend to have a higher amount of heat added to houses. We’re currently planning on building our new house and I think adding a fireplace would be great. I also have to consider where to get our building supplies, especially ones that would offer fireplace materials.