Adding a fireplace to your home can instantly increase its appeal. You’ll enjoy a warmer, more radiant atmosphere, the soft crackle to add to your room’s ambiance, and you could even increase the value of your home at the same time.
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The problem is, in the modern era, there are literally hundreds of types of fireplaces you can install in your home. How can you choose the best fireplace for your home?
Consider Laws in Your Area
Depending on where you live, there may be specific laws and regulations that restrict the type of fireplace you can install. For example, in some cities, you may be prohibited from installing a wood burning fireplace; however, there should be plenty of viable options available to you.
Choose the Right Type
One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is choosing the type of fireplace you want to install. There are a handful of major options to consider here, including:
· Wood burning. First, you could choose a traditional wood burning fireplace. There are many benefits to wood burning fireplaces. For example, lots of people tend to like how they look; there’s no way to fully replicate the sight of burning logs and real red flames. They also give you a natural crackle, and a sense of authenticity. However, if you want to install a wood burning fireplace, you’ll need a chimney, and you’ll need to enforce the right safety standards to limit the possibility of a house fire. Additionally, wood burning fireplaces are expensive to keep running, and they’re not very efficient at heating the home.
· Electric. Alternatively, you could invest in an electric fireplace. Electric fireplaces don’t have live, burning flames, but they replicate the experience of such flames. You won’t have to worry about proper ventilation or deadly fumes, and the risk of starting a bigger fire is much lower. These are also highly mobile and easy to install, and they use far less energy than other types of fireplaces. Of course, there are a few potential downsides to consider as well. For example, during a power outage, your electric fireplace won’t work, and some people don’t enjoy the “fakeness” of an electric flame.
· Gas. You may also consider a gas fireplace. Like with electric fireplaces, there’s no chimney required for a gas fireplace. However, you’ll need to install the fireplace carefully and add the right ventilation to prevent the possibility of a gas leak. You can light up ceramic logs with a light switch or remote control, making it easy to get the fire roaring, and cleanup and maintenance needs are minimal. You’ll also spend less money to keep a gas fireplace running than you would with a real wood burning fireplace. However, many people still find wood burning fireplaces to produce a better overall aesthetic.
Other Factors for Consideration
Once you’ve decided on the type of fireplace you want to buy, consider these factors:
· Location. Where is your fireplace going to be? Most people choose to install a fireplace in the living room, where people spend most of their time, but where in the living room is it going to rest? Positioning can make a big impact on the overall flow and appearance of the room, so think carefully about your decision here.
· Budget. How much are you willing to spend on a fireplace? You may be able to install certain types of fireplaces for just a few hundred dollars, but you’ll need to spend more if you want a more robust experience. Set your budget proactively, and then look for options that fit.
· Brand. Next, consider the brand you want to buy. There are several options, most of which offer different types of styles and different levels of reliability. Do your due diligence and read customer reviews to figure out which brands you personally trust the most.
· Size and style. Finally, you’ll want to consider the size and style of your fireplace. What kind of aesthetic are you going for? How much space do you have to work with?
· Installation. It’s possible to install a fireplace on your own, especially if you spend some time learning the ropes and troubleshooting potential issues. However, it’s usually better if you reserve at least some of your budget to pay for a professional installation. A professional installer that you may find on www.fireplacelabs.com will be able to ensure your fireplace is installed correctly and safely, minimizing the risk to your family, and they’ll likely be able to do a cleaner and more efficient job.
There are hundreds of fireplaces to consider, but nearly all of them can add warmth and comfort to your home in one way or another. Review your options carefully, and go with the option you feel can add the most to your home environment.
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