Fireplaces: Types, Installation Tips & Cost Guide
In our guide on indoor and outdoor fireplaces you will find out all about fireplace types, installation tips and cost of each specific type of fireplace.
When you think about a fireplace on a very cold evening during the winter season only three things come to your mind; warmth, perfect ambiance and serenity. Spending your time together with your loved ones in front of the fireplace can be comforting. It’s the coziest ways to beat the cold and enjoy the unfavorable winter season in the warm living room.
You can never go wrong by installing a fireplace. This home addition comes with multiple of benefits the greatest of them being the increased value of your home. They not only make your home look inviting but they also provide it with the ideal classic and timeless setting. Somehow, a fireplace makes your living room glow with a romantic ambiance with just the right feel of warmth.
There is no single reason why your home should be lacking a fireplace. If you don’t have one, then installing it should be the next major home improvement project. Here are the reasons why you should consider installing a fireplace in your home.
Aesthetic appeal
The living room serves as the focal point of your home, and so, it should reflect your style and taste. Installing a fireplace will not only enhance the look of your living room it will also create a natural warm effect with an elegant spectacular view.
Besides, you have endless designs to choose from to make your fireplace match its surroundings, bring out your taste better and at the same create an inviting, cozy feeling around your indoor living space. The modern designs of fireplace play a significant role in your living’s room appearance and most cases they complement the design and style of your home effortless.
Improved heating efficiency
No matter what type of fuel you choose to you use, installing a fireplace contributes significantly to heating your home. If placed at a focal point where the heat is well distributed in the entire living room, a fireplace will help you achieve heating efficiency. This means that you will benefit with lower energy bills.
The modern and advanced designs of fireplaces are designed to be more efficient, an aspect that can contribute to lower energy bills with time. By installing a fireplace, you will not only be gaining a reliable source of heat but, you will also be saving substantially on your energy bills.
Independent Source of Energy
A fireplace is a simply a source of heat. It’s safe to say that it’s actually an affordable heating system in your home that will reduce your dependence on the central heating of your home. If you install an efficient fireplace in your home at a strategic place, you will require less heat from your existing heating system.
A well-installed fireplace that is strategically positioned in your living area can significantly reduce your reliance upon the utility company. Most homeowners are trying to cut back on the amount of power supply they use in their home due to the costs and also the environmental impact. You will benefit more by installing a fireplace in your home when it comes energy bills. This is because your home’s central heating system will be less functional since the fireplace can sufficiently heat your living room during the cold evenings.
Environmentally Friendly
There are three types of fireplaces; gas, electric and wood-burning. All three are considered to be environmentally friendly as compared to using a furnace. They are efficient and provide enough heat with low emissions. In fact, the modern fireplace designs are made to be friendlier to the environment, and some can even distribute heat through the existing ductwork to an entire home.
Additionally, fireplaces are incredibly energy efficient and have been designed in such a way that they burn cleaner and produce minimal combustion gasses that reach the clean air standards. If you install a fireplace in your home, you will not only be achieving a good source of heat; you will also be heating your home more efficiently while conserving the environment.
Create ambiance and a cozy atmosphere
A fireplace can significantly change the look and the feel of your home. There no is disputing that a fireplace improves the appearance of your home, emits a natural warmth coupled with a soft glow that sets a romantic ambiance. When you think of a fireplace, winter comes to your mind, and then you picture a nice evening with a glass of wine probably stretching out in a soft rug. Such a scene is simply spectacular and is achievable in your home only if you install a fireplace.
In addition, a fireplace brings family and loved ones together either for warmth or just social and bonding sessions. Even the movies create a perfect picture of a fireplace when it’s snowing, and your home should not be exempted from this perfect ambiance, warmth, and coziness.
Little maintenance (Gas and Electric)
The gas and electric fireplace require little maintenance after installation, and they are relatively safe to use. Even the wood fireplace can be safe when properly maintained. You do not to do much to keep the fireplace in a working condition. In fact, most of them have been designed to ensure maximum safety around your home during their operation.
Easy to install, and affordable
When you think of a fireplace installation, you might think it’s a complicated addition to install, but this is not the case. The fireplaces units especially the gas and electric are actually very versatile, and they do not require complicated installation procedures. In the past, installing a fireplace meant that you to build an exterior chimney or flue, and firebox. You also had to think about the floor support which was to cater for the added weight of the hearth.
Nowadays, this is not always the case. If you decide to install one in your home you will not have to remodel your home for it to fit, all you need to do is to identify the ideal spot for installation and buy a model that best suits your needs. Technological advancements have made installation of the fireplace more flexible, versatile and super easy.
In addition, fireplaces are affordable, and they are not costly to fix. They are available at different costs depending on the model you choose to buy. With even as little as $1500, you can install a functional fireplace in your home and enjoy the benefits that come with it.
Available In many designs
Fireplaces are available in many designs to suit your style. Whether your style is modern, traditional, sleek a mix of any of this styles, a fireplace can be tailored to complement the existing décor in your home. You can choose unique designs that will not only enhance your living room but also define your home and reflect your taste.
Increases the value of your home
A survey by National Association of Realtors shows that a fireplace is one of the most preferred features in a home by potential buyers and that 40% of participants cited that the presence of a fireplace would make them pay extra when buying a home.
Similarly, another study by National Center for Real Estate showed that fireplace contributes to a positive effect on the overall selling price of a home and they can add 12% to the value of the home. From the statistics, it’s clear that a fireplace plays a big role in attracting potential buyers and it’s a valuable feature to add to your home.
Types of Fireplace
When winter comes knocking you have no choice other than to make your indoor living space warm and comfortable. Installing a fireplace in your home is one the best ways to beat the cold and make your stay indoors bearable. There is nothing cozier than a fireplace in the luxury of your home.
But before you settle down to installing one, you need to be aware of the different types of fireplaces. Traditionally, wood was one the main options. Wood –burning is still very popular, and it provides a great ambiance for your home. However, with the invention of the modern gas and electric fireplaces, some people find the wood-burning option a bit messy and frustrating to handle.
The gas and electric options are also excellent alternatives, but you will still need to make a lot of decisions and considerations when choosing between the two. The choice of the perfect fireplace for your home boils down to your needs, taste, and preferences. You need to install a fireplace that best reflects your home and complements the existing décor and style. In this guide, we will discuss the three main types of fireplaces, their pros, and cons and highlight their functional features.
Wood-Burning Fireplace
From generation to generation, wood-burning fireplaces have been a part of most people’s lives across all ages. They can be described as a timeless favorite to a majority of homeowners valued for the aesthetic appeal they ooze. In short, wood-burning fireplaces have a traditional elegance coupled with the smell of wood that makes everyone want to gather around and indulge.
Wood-burning fireplace relies on logs as its source of fuel. Being the oldest traditional fireplace, it has maintained its appeal even in the modern society. However, this option has its pros and cons.
Pros
Ambiance
The wood-burning fireplaces exude warmth, nostalgia and an authentic traditional feel. Nothing beats the glow of wood flame, somehow dancing rhythmically and then slowly melting down. The crackling flames always seem to reflect a cheerful mood. It draws you and your loved ones to gather around the fireplace and take in the warmth as you chat away or enjoy indoor activities, or just curl up in your favorite chair to read a good a book.
Warmth even without electricity
Sometimes the worst can happen especially during the winter when the storms hit leaving most homes without power. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, you will not only stay warm, but you will have plenty of light to keep you going through the night.
With a wood-burning fireplace, you will not have to sit pensively in a freezing house as you wait for the utility company to install the power back. You will be glowing in pure comfort and a good ambiance to go with the mood.
Eco-friendly heating
The modern wood –burning fireplaces have been designed to be efficient to provide enough warmth without using a lot of fuel energy supply. The modern fireplace inserts can actually heat a room three to four times longer as compared to the traditional ones. Unlike the fossil fuel, wood-burning fireplaces produce fewer emissions which leaves the environment safe.
Cons
Even though the wood option has a timeless effect in our homes and seems to have withstood the test of time, this option has its drawbacks:
Can sometimes be less efficient
When you burn wood as fuel, it will emit carbon monoxide which is released in the form of smoke. As a result, a lot of heat is lost in the chimney or flue making this option less efficient. However, the modern wood-burning fireplaces can be fitted with elements that reduce air movement up the chimney or flue.
Requires up-keep
Wood-burning fireplace requires logs as its main source of fuel. This means that you have to have plenty of wood supply in your home to ensure sufficient and constant heating. You need to keep chopping the wood to maintain the supply or purchase it on a regular basis which can be a bit costly.
In addition, when the fire is burning, you have to keep adding and stacking wood to maintain the fire and keep it burning. This means that you have to pay attention to the fire to make sure it retains the right balance; otherwise too much wood might actually lead to too much flame which can get out control and cause a house fire. On the other hand, adding insufficient pieces of wood may not warm the room sufficiently.
Still, on the issue of upkeep, the wood-burning fireplace can be messy. In the process of burning, the fire leaves a lot of soot and debris in the chimney which means you have to keep cleaning the fireplace on a regular basis.
Gas Fireplaces
Fireplaces have not been exempted from the technological advancements in the world. Initially, homeowners did not have plenty of choices when it came to fireplaces. Wood was the only option. However, the modern times have seen the introduction of gas fireplaces that make use of natural gas to heat your home.
The gas fireplace provides you an option of a smokeless heating system in your home. Compared to wood, you do not have to stay hawk-eyed watching the fire and painstakingly stacking the wood to keep it burning not to mention scooping the ash after the fire goes down.
Even though gas fireplace unit works and operates similar to the traditional wood-burning fireplace, it only requires you to push a button to ignite the fire instead of manually starting the fire. A gas fireplace insert is a prefab burner that is set in a metal box and can be fit in your preferred location for a fireplace.
The installation process involves drilling holes for gas lines in your home. The gas fireplaces inserts can be vented and designed with a glass panel that allows you to see the flames; or, it can be designed vent-free with either a glass panel or installed with a metal screen.
Venting options
Here are the three vent options for gas fireplaces
Natural vent – also commonly referred to as B-vent. It relies on the existing masonry chimney where a pipe (B-vent) has to be installed to pass through and draws the room air from inside the home and passes it outside. The pipe uses room air for combustion and exhausts the by-products to the outside.
The drawback with the natural vent is that the vent has to be installed through your roof to the interior of your home and this can cost you significant labor costs and other complications depending on the structure of your home.
In case of the downdraft, the B-vent might allow cold air into your living room which could be inconveniencing. Sometimes, the heat from the fireplace can get lost in the B-vent.
Direct vent – in this case, a direct vent pipe is used to draw in outdoor air for combustion. It has two parts; one is used for exhaust while the other one is used for combustion of air. The vent is a sealed combustion compartment and does not allow air from the inside to be used for combustion. The vents can go through the roof or out through the back or through the sidewall making them most ideal for homes that don’t have a chimney.
Installing direct vent system is quite a simple process especially if the vent is going out through the wall and ends at the wall. This means that it doesn’t have to go through the roofline making the installation easy, fast and cost-effective. The direct vent eliminates heat loss that is usually associated with traditional chimneys. They are more efficient as compared to B-vent and they tend to build more heat even with a medium or a low flame setting.
However, direct vent fireplaces are designed with sealed glass front and have a smaller flame as compared to B-vent or vent-free fireplaces. You cannot tamper with the way the logs have been positioned as this might result in incomplete combustion.
Vent-free – this is the most flexible option which allows you to place the fireplace in many places and positions. This is because it doesn’t need a venting pipe to be effective. It uses a catalytic –converter system that closely looks like the exhaust system in most new cars. This means that the catalytic-converter system cleans out the hot air that is leaving the combustion compartment.
The vent free is very efficient because the heat generated stays in the room. You do not need to install a vent pipe for it to work which makes its installation super easy and cost-effective.
However, the drawback with vent free system is that since the vent fumes stay inside the room, it may affect some people. It also expels some percentage of moisture inside your home which can make windows to drip. Compared to other options, the vent free fireplaces tend to have a low flame, and you might not be in a position to re-position the setting of the logs since most are preset by the manufacturer.
Pros
Convenience
In the world where everything is digitalized with less hassle to operate, gas fireplaces come with the same convenience. You only need to push a button, and in an instant, you have fire and a warm home. This is one feature that you can’t oversell when it comes to gas fireplace inserts.
The average modern homeowner is overwhelmed by family, careers, meetings, schools, etc. and when they come home, all they want is minimized operations. The gas fireplace comes as a relief for most people and the convenience cannot be debated.
The convenience of gas fireplace does not stop at the ignition. With this unit, it means that you don’t have to look for logs, chop and carry them to the house and constantly keep stacking the fire.
In fact, with gas fireplace, you don’t have to stay alert to tend to the fire continuously. Once you press the ignition button, the fire will burn continuously as required and the flames won’t go off just because you neglected the fire as it is the case with the wood option.
Various options
Gas fireplace inserts come with so many options that generally make your life easy. They are thermostatically controlled meaning that the heat stays consistent. In addition, they are equipped with timers that can turn off the fire even when you have dozed. You do not have to worry about the fire going off prematurely because you have not added wood.
Still on the available options, the gas fireplaces have a built-in fan that draws indoor air into the space behind the firebox and in return pumps out hot air. The high-end gas fireplaces are installed with what can be referred to as comfort control systems. These are systems that monitor the room’s temperature and automatically slow the burner down once the room almost achieves the desired warmth.
Little maintenance
Unlike the wood-burning, gas fireplaces do not leave soot or debris. Thus you do not need to clean or removed ash and charred wood.
Cons
Gas line installation -This option requires a supply of gas to operate. This means that you have to install a gas line in your home which can be costly.
Monthly utility cost – Since this unit uses gas as its fuel, you have to factor in the monthly utility costs to keep it running.
Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are becoming a modern alternative to traditional and conventional fireplaces. It has a look and feel of wood or gas fire. The electric fireplace, just as the name suggests, are powered by electricity making it one of the easiest options to operate. It is also one of the most affordable options that give you a real feel of fireplace especially when you are down your on a budget to install the conventional fireplaces.
Pros
Least expensive
The electric fireplaces are the most affordable and least expensive options available. They are also cheaper to install, and you won’t have to spend thousands of dollars on the initial installation cost.
In fact, the installation cost can be very minimal, depending on the type and design of the fireplace unit. When you opt to use electric fireplace you do not have to think about budgeting for a chimney or buying wood, a fact that makes this option cost efficient.
Energy efficient
When the winter season comes knocking, you have to think about your energy bills which can increase drastically due to your home’s heating needs. This happens when you have to continually use your central home heating system to maintain warmth in all the rooms.
However, with an electric fireplace, you can supplement your home’s heating needs by heating up the room that is currently occupied without consequently increasing your energy bills.
With an electric fireplace, you can lower the thermostat for your homes central heating system to a lower temperature and still get enough warmth from your electric fireplace. It is considered as an effective way of saving money without compromising on the comfort of your home.
They also release heat directly into the room meaning no heat is lost to chimneys or vents which are not needed in the first place. This way you get to get maximum heat without incurring excess energy costs.
Flexible for installation
With an electric fireplace, you do not have to worry about remodeling your home to accommodate its installation. You will not even think about contractor’s fee. They are easy to install, and all you need is a source for plugging in. In fact, they are highly portable meaning you can you can place them in any preferred spot or room in your home and just plug them in and get instant warmth. If you want to move from your apartment to another, you can always carry your fireplace with you and continue to enjoy sufficient heating.
If you are short of space in your home, they are the most ideal for they can fit in tight and small spaces where the conventional fireplaces wouldn’t fit.
Environmentally friendly
Electric fireplaces emit no fuses or gasses such as carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide that can harm the environment. In fact, these units leave the least of carbon footprint since no toxic gasses are being released into the atmosphere.
If you or your loved ones have allergies or respiratory issues such as asthma, they will not be affected by things like gas that may happen with wood or gas fireplaces. With electric gas, all you need to is to turn the switch on to get heat and warmth without worrying about environmental effects.
Cons
Fake fires
The electric fireplaces are considered to have fake fires which makes them look unrealistic and artificial. If you are a wood lover who likes the sound of crackling flame and the smell of wood burning, the electric fireplaces can be a real turnoff.
Unreliable during a power outage
The electric fireplaces rely on electricity to run. If by any chance there is a power outage, or you live in areas where blackouts are frequent, these units might not be so reliable.
Installation considerations
What is your fireplace made of? Is it brick or stone? Stone can make the fireplace look natural and it’s extremely durable. You can choose to use various stone customization to create a preferred stone look such as stone veneer or faux stone. Types of stone that can be used to make the fireplace include limestone, granite, and marble.
Brick models, on the other hand, gives your fireplace a classic look. They are also durable just like stone. Since brick is human-made, it’s available in many colors and patterns meaning you can personalize your fireplace to reflect your style. They are also easier to install compared to the stone which is more labor intensive since they are hard to cut and they come in irregular shapes.
Whatever you choose brick or stone, if you plan to build a new fireplace you will need to involve a mason, and you will also require a contractor for installation of the fireplace. Even if your choice of fire-place may not be wood, you may still want to place your gas or electric insert in a more classic looking cover-up.
Cost of installing fireplace
A fireplace is an excellent way to add warmth to your home and at the same time enhance the look and feel of your living space. The type of a fireplace you choose will determine the installation cost and the amount of work to be done.
Cost of Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are considered to be the cheapest options. Since they do not have an actual flame, they do not need a chimney. A plug-in electric fireplace costs an average of $150 to $1000. These options only require a plug-in source, and there are others that come with a remote control making its operation quite easy.
If you choose models that are made with stone materials, expect to pay an extra $500-$1500. If the model is made of brick, expect to spend $350 to $1100 on top of the total cost.
In some cases, you might have to spend on wiring especially if the electrical outlet is located a distance away from the fireplace. The wiring can cost you about $150-$300.
Cost of Gas Fireplace
The average cost of installing a gas fireplace ranges around $2,038. A pre-built gas fireplace can cost about $1500-$3000. The gas fireplace requires fireproof firebox that is designed to handle the gas heat to the maximum. Majority of the pre-built gas fireplace units come with the firebox. However, if you are assembling and customizing the gas fireplace, you have to install the firebox separately which will cost you about $200 to $1000.
The gas fireplace will require a direct vent or an exhaust pipe which will cost you about $500 to $1000 to install. Compared to the cost of installing a chimney, the cost of installing a direct vent is substantially lower. A homeowner can choose to create a more natural look for the pre-built gas fireplace by adding stone or brick models. If you opt for stone, expect to spend another $500 to $1500, while brick models will cost extra $350 to $1050.
The other cost consideration when installing gas fireplace is the cost of gas line installation. If there is a gas line in your home that can be extended, you will spend about $150 to $300 on installation cost. However, if the gas line has to be installed from the main gas supply in your home, the cost will be higher, and you are likely to spend around $500-$2000 for the installation.
Cost of Installing Wood-Burning Fireplace
Before you consider installing a wood-burning fireplace, it is advisable that you check with your local building code department or fire department to confirm if construction of new fireplaces is permitted. Some states prohibit construction of new fireplaces and only allow remodeling of the existing ones. In addition to finding out about new constructions, you should inquire about the required permits since some regions and counties limit the number of new construction of wood-burning fireplace.
Once you have clarified about the regulations pertaining constriction of a wood burning fireplace, you need to know the costs involved. If you have specific requirements or your home requires some modifications to accommodate a fireplace, you will be better off with a custom masonry built unit.
The custom-built wood-burning options are more expensive as compared to the prefab fireplaces. The custom built stone fireplaces are the most costly options, but they bring out a luxurious feel with a touch of elegance. You will are likely to find these stonework wood-burning fireplaces in those expensive mountain resorts. They are dramatic, beautiful and quite impressive.
To put up the custom-built wood-burning fireplace, you will require a professionally skilled mason to do the intricate work. The cost will vary depending on the type and quality of stone used and the experience level of the mason.
The average cost of constructing a custom built wood burning fireplace comes to about $7,500 to $15,000. This cost is for labor and material and does not include installation meaning the cost often exceeds the quoted amount. If you opt for the brick wood burning fireplace, the average cost comes to about $5,500-$11000.
Installation cost of custom-built wood-burning fireplace often adds an extra cost of $2500 to $10,000. This cost depends on if you have a chimney in place. If you don’t have one, the cost building a chimney ranges from $60 to $95 per linear foot.
During installation, you will need to install a firebox that can withstand the high heat of burning wood. The average cost of installing a new firebox comes to around $500 to $1000.
Cost of Installing Wood Stoves
Just like the custom-built wood-burning fireplaces, you need to check with the fire department and building codes before installing one. The cost of a high-quality wood stove ranges from $3000 to $4000. This cost covers the stovepipe/chimney, assembly, and other installation expenses.
Before you decide to install a stove, you need to make key decisions regarding its installation requirements and expenses. A wood stove might not require an intricate masonry work, but it will need a fire-resistant base or foundation that can withstand the heat and its weight. The base can be made from materials such as brick, stone, tile or even cement. It acts as a foundation that provides a heat barrier.
The cost will depend on the type of material you choose and the style you want the wood stove to reflect. The wood stove installation costs include:
Chimney installation – when installing wood stoves you need to consider a chimney. Most chimneys are made using insulated stainless steel. In most cases, when buying a chimney, you might get all the essentials required for installation. But, you can opt to purchase installation items separately.
For instance, you can buy a one-foot double wall chimney for around $28.50 to $46 or a stainless 3ft steel pipe for $87. The total cost of installing a chimney will depend on the cost of labor, tools needed for installation, materials used, and the location where the chimney will be installed.
Wall covering – a wood stove is supposed to be located 18 inches or more from your home’s surface such as the wall or the ceiling. If this not possible, it’s recommended that you consider a wall covering that is non-combustible. It will protect the wall or the ceiling from heat damages and prevent incidences of fire hazards. Expect to spend an average of $9 for 3ftx 5ft sheet of non-combustible wall covering. While budgeting for the wall covering, you should keep in mind the labor charges.
Installation of the fireplace base – as mentioned, the wood stove requires a heat resistant base to prevent damages to the floor surfaces. The cost of base installation will depend on various factors such as the size of the hearth, materials used and labor charges. It is recommended that you purchase fireplace base that extends at least 8 or 9 inches on each side of the wood stove.
Types of Wood Stoves
Wood stoves come in two different types:
I. Standalone
II. Inserts
Both of these models can be made from stone, steel or iron. They use wood or wood pellets to burn. Both of these options vent through the normal chimney similar to wood-burning fireplaces. However, when purchasing the standalone wood stove, it’s important to make sure it’s certified by the relevant agency, in this case, the Environmental Protection Agency.
The standalone wood stove is available in two types: catalytic and non-catalytic.
Catalytic wood stove – they burn the smoke off through secondary combustion for more efficiency. It takes in the circulated smoke and other pollutants in the stove and turns them into usable heat.
The catalytic wood stove is more efficient, burns for longer, and have more advanced options such as a thermostat, top-loading, and a swing-out ash pan. This option has few debris making the cleaning process a bit easy. However, the catalytic wood stoves have to be replaced after 2 to 3 years, and, compared to other options, it’s harder to operate.
Noncatalytic combustion – they don’t use a catalyst to ignite the heat or smoke. It is designed with elements that ensure that it burns efficiently through a single operational control. It comes at a slightly lower cost as compared to catalytic option. It also has more flame and its way much easier to operate. However, since it doesn’t burn debris, it will require more cleaning.
Wood stove ventilation
Just as discussed in gas fireplaces, the wood stove requires venting. You can choose to use B-vent or natural vents where the air is expelled from a chimney, or you a direct vent that draws air from outside and then expels the contaminated air back outside. You can also choose vent –free or vent-less units that use catalytic converter to clean the air when being released from the combustion chamber.
| Cost considerations | Description | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Electric fireplaces | Cost of electric fireplaces | $150-$2500 |
| Wiring | $150-$350 | |
| Cost of mounting electric fireplace | $250-$750 | |
| Gas fireplaces | Cost of installing gas fireplaces | $1500-$4000 |
| Cost of a pre-built gas fireplace | $1200-$3000 | |
| Installing a gas line | $150-$300 | |
| Installing a direct vent | $500-$1000 | |
| Cost of a gas fireplace blower Installation materials | $100-$200 $75-$150 |
|
| Wood-burning fireplace | Cost of constructing custom-built wood-burning fireplace | $7500-$10000 |
| Cost of installing custom-built wood-burning fireplace | 25000-$10000 | |
| Building a chimney – cost per linear foot | $60-$95 | |
| Cost of installing a brick model fireplace –cost per hour(project takes two days) | $70-$90-per hour | |
| Installing or repairing a firebox | $500-$1000 | |
| Adding a chimney cap Professions- DIY | $100-$200 $50-$60 |
|
| Wood stove | Cost of installing wood stove | $3000-$4000 |
| Others | Adding a mantle | $400-$1000 |
| Adding glass fireplace doors | $100-$200 |
Outdoor Vs Indoor Fireplaces
Installation of an outdoor fireplace is similar to that of indoor fireplace. The only difference is that the outdoor fireplace will either be located in the yard or on a patio. Whether powered by gas or wood, the outdoor fireplaces will require an installation of a chimney or a venting pipe.
Just like the indoor fireplace, you can choose electric, gas or wood-burning. It all boils down to preference, budget and the space available.
If you choose the gas option, you can connect the gas line with the town line, or if you are using propane, you can make use of an independent tank for supply. The electric fireplace might be a bit difficult to install depending on the source of the power at the outdoors. You might have to involve an electrician for additional wiring and to create a junction box for an easier plugin.
Benefits of Outdoor Fireplaces
Just like the indoor fireplaces, you benefit a lot from outdoor fireplaces. They are a great backdrop in your home for they create a magnificent and spectacular scenery, especially at night.
Here are some of the benefits of having an outdoor fireplace:
Ambience
There is no disputing that an outdoor fireplace creates a breathtakingly beautiful scene that seems to glow softly and somehow match the movement of the air outside. Whether you are sitting outside with your loved ones sipping a drink and gazing at the stars or you are you alone curled up in your favorite chair, nothing can beat the ambiance the outdoor fireplace adds to your patio or yard.
Entertain Guests
Outdoor fireplaces provide a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere as you entertain your guests. You gather and sit around the fireplace with your guests and chat away as you take in the fresh breath of air. They add charm, and freedom of sitting outside as you enjoy the comfort of the warmth produced by the fireplace. You do not have to confine yourselves indoors as you admire the yard from a distance.
Add Value to Your Home
Just like the indoor fireplaces, this feature is like a magnet to potential buyers. The presence of an outdoor fireplace can significantly add value to your home. In case you planning to put your home on the market in future, you are likely fetching a better price than a home that doesn’t have one.
Outdoor fireplaces are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and still stay warm. If you love hosting dinner parties or having romantic moments with your loved ones outside, this feature will serve you the best and create the ideal spot for hanging out.
Fireplace Decoration Ideas
A fireplace comes out as a focal point of your living space and most often, it draws your eye attention the minute you walk into a room. A tastefully designed and decorated mantle reflects your style, enhances the existing décor and creates a cozy environment for your home.
When it comes to decorating your fireplace, the first thing you need to do is install a mantle shelf to your fireplace if it doesn’t have one. Just like any other home enhancement features, a mantle plays a significant decorative role in your fireplace. It gives you an opportunity to style and decorate your fireplace to match your style, seasons and holidays. There is no reason why your fireplace should be left looking plain and dull.
One of the essential aspects to put into consideration when decorating your fireplace is the issue of balance. You need to strike a balance between the fireplace space and the decoration features. You should strive to create a simple and streamlined look that is pleasant to look at, and still gives your room an aura of space.
Whether you prefer a classic to a more conservative look; or a modern popular style, decorating your fireplace with the best suitable designs and colors can help you achieve your desired style of decor. You can decorate your mantle and fireplace to match or enhance the theme of your home, or you can come up with a simple but sophisticated style that draws the eye to the fireplace while at the same time complementing the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Here are some spectacular decorating ideas for your fireplace that should help get started:
Add greenery or floral appeal
Most often, a fireplace is made of hard materials such as brick or stone. This masculine kind of look might not complement your living space accordingly. Plants and flowers not only create a soft and fresh atmosphere, but they can also tone down the hard look by creating a lively and vibrant environment.
A good floral arrangement will give the fireplace a soft feminine appeal that blends in with the design of your home. On the other hand, a pop of green from plants will add a natural kind of style especially the tall grasses that are becoming popular with homeowners. If you opt to use a plant, go for the type that will reflect a neutral and delicate touch with just the right height to strike an eye-catching scene.
Add art
The magic of art cannot be underestimated. A display of art or your favorite painting sitting delicately on the mantle shelf can greatly make your fireplace area look spectacular and inviting. You can also choose to hang a painting that best reflects your taste and style. This way, you will not only be making a statement, but you will also draw attention to the fireplace.
Create a contrast
As mentioned, fireplaces are made of hard looking materials, i.e., brick and stone which can make the fireplace area look dull. To avoid this, you can change your ordinary–looking fireplace area into a spectacular focal point with a pop of contrasting color.
You can achieve this by painting the mantle and the wall above it with the right color that will create contrast with the room’s main wall color. For example, if your walls room’s color is yellow, you can paint the mantle and the wall above it with a shade of grey to make it stand out while at the same time blending in perfectly with your room’s theme.
Use mirrors
Mirrors create an illusion of space. They can also help you emphasize on your room’s height and form a contrast for a better impact. In addition, placing a huge mirror on your mantle creates an illusion of a window which in turn establishes a brighter focal point for your living room. The mirror will also reflect light from the open spaces such as the door or the window and help brighten up your living room further. You can choose to hang the mirror on the wall above the mantle shelf, or you can make it sit on the mantle shelf while slightly leaning on the wall.
Change with seasons
You can make your fireplace more exciting by embracing seasons and matching your décor to reflect the season’s mood. For example, you can display fresh flowers or tall grasses in the spring, or you can add LED Christmas lights around the mantle to reflect a celebratory mood. Changing your fireplace decorations to reflect the current season gives your home a fresh outlook throughout the year.
Stylish screens
A flat-screen TV mounted on the wall above the mantle can blend well with the existing décor and furniture and improve the aesthetic appeal so effortlessly. You can try framing the TV to get more room to add a few accessories while making sure you strike a good balance. Be careful not to over-accessorizing the mantle to avoid making the area look crowded or incidentally, you might end up blocking the screen.
Conclusion
A fireplace provides a beautiful visual point for your home, whether indoors or outdoors. It adds a warm, romantic ambiance to your home and makes it look cozy and inviting. It’s an efficient way of heating your living space and creating a comfortable environment for you and your loved ones.
The type of fireplace you choose will depend on your taste, budget and the available space in your home.
If you love the charm and the smell of wood or you prefer a more conservative look for your home, you can go for wood-burning fireplaces.
However, if you prefer a modern and stylish look for your home, the gas or electric fireplace will be a perfect choice. For those working on a much lower budget, the electric fireplace is most affordable and requires no installation fee or contractors costs.