Gentle readers: I was curled up in front of a roaring fire yesterday – the weather gods have decided to give winter another shot – and it struck me once again that fireplaces rock.
You wouldn’t expect a Florida dweller to think much about fireplaces, but fortunately for us, interior designer Lorrie Browne does. She maintains an excellent source list (called My Secret Database) on her blog of such things. I thought bossy blog readers might be interested in what she has to say about fireplaces. The groundhog having seen his shadow and all, it’s not too late to get a fire going.
A Cozy Fireplace for Your Home
As you walk your dog on a chilly night you may have a wee bit of envy as the aroma of your neighbor’s fireplace wafts in the air. If only your home had a fireplace, you would curl up with a book and your pup at your feet, or toast marshmallows with the kids. Well, the prospect of adding a fireplace to your home is not near as complicated or expensive as you might suspect. There are lots of options out there, so let’s find the one that suits your situation and style by reviewing what’s available.
Traditional Wood Burning Fireplace
The Basics: This installation is possible during construction or renovation. The fireplace needs a chimney as well as a firebox made of brick or concrete. The fireplace will need to be cleaned and ashes removed. Hardwood is often the best and it should be dried out over the course of the year whether you buy it or chop it yourself.
Design Considerations: The design choices are endless including prefabricated or custom mantels made of wood, stone, tile or any combination of those. Use a fireplace screen to prevent embers from jumping out and add some style.
Cost: Because there is construction involved, you can expect to start at about $2,000 and go up from there.
Direct Vent Fireplace
The Basics: You can add this type of fireplace to your existing home with a moderate amount of expense. The fireplace can vent up a traditional chimney or you can have it vent directly horizonatally through the wall or up through the roof. It is fueled by natural gas so it is very clean burning. If you are very handy, you may be able to install one yourself but I would recommend a professional for most people.
Design Considerations: They come with a fixed tempered glass window for safety that you cannot remove. The radiant heat comes through but you may not like the look. Log sets are very realistic and hide the gas jet. They can be operated from a switch or remote control.
Cost: The cost of the a fireplace and mantel combination will start at about $500 and go up to more than $4,000. You can also purchase the direct vent mechanism and design a custom mantel.
Vent-Free Fireplaces
The Basics: These fireplaces give you a lot of options because no vent is required. Why? Because the heat production is low enough and the burn clean enough that it’s not necessary. They can use propane or natural gas.
Design Considerations: There are many styles available. No electricity required. They give off a bit of heat so this is not the best option for warmer climates. Also, because of atmospheric pressure, the pilot may go out in altitudes above 4,500 feet.
Cost: Small and simple designs start at $250 and go up from there. You will also have to hook it up to the gas line.
Electric Fireplaces
The Basics: This is a great option for people on a tight budget, apartment dwellers or those who want instant gratification. You plug it in and you are ready to go. Take it with you when you move.
Design Considerations: There are a variety of styles available. Some are just designed for appearance and others are constructed with heaters.
Cost: There are a variety styles available starting at about $200.
Creative Solution
If you have a fireplace in an apartment or older home that is no longer functional, then there is a safe yet attractive solution that will still give you the fireplace effect. Real Flame Gel – It comes in a can and burns clean. It’s made from premium grade isopropyl alcohol and thickeners and one can burns for about 3 hours. You can buy stone cast logs to get the “real” feel. These are also perfect for warm weather climates because they don’t emit any heat.
All of these options can also work for an outdoor application or for 2 or 3-sided fireplaces. Many of you are super handy but for those of you who are not, it’s always smart to hire a professional to help you. Safety should always be your top priority. I hope you find a solution that works for your home so you can enjoy it this winter!
Shop for Fireplaces, Mantels and Fireplace Accessories in My Secret Database!
Lorrie Browne is a licensed Interior Designer and founder of www.MyDesignSecrets.com, a great DIY online resource for home decorating, solutions, insights, and comprehensive retail sources.