Guide to starting and maintaining a fireplace

There’s something special about relaxing next to a cosy fire on a chilly winter night. Whether you’re reading a book, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying the warmth, a fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. But if you’ve never had a fireplace before, learning how to start and maintain one can seem like a huge task. Therefore, we’ve compiled this guide to help you negotiate the nuances of fireplace ownership.

From choosing the right type of fireplace to safety considerations and maintenance tips, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about a fireplace.

See also: Your guide to effective chimney cleaning

 

Fireplace: What is it?

A fireplace is an impressive and imposing addition to any room, and it frequently takes centre stage as the primary point of interest in the space. While seemingly simple in design, there are a few key elements to take note of before planning for a fireplace in your home, office, or workspace.

The firebox, the large interior area where the fire is built, is an essential component of a fireplace. The mantel, which is a decorative ledge located above the firebox, can be made of various materials such as wood, stone, or other heat-safe materials, and is often used to showcase decorative accents like framed artwork or candlesticks.

The chimney, a vertical channel that directs smoke out of the house through the roof or another exit point, is another important part of a fireplace. The hearth, the portion of the fireplace’s base that faces the room rather than the hearth, can be constructed from brick, stone, metal, or tile.

It’s worth noting that gas and electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, and the materials used for construction may vary. Ultimately, a fireplace is a functional and aesthetically pleasing feature that can add warmth and ambience to any space.

 

Fireplace: Types

Fireplaces come in various styles to fit different design aesthetics and heating needs. Here are the most common types of fireplaces:

Built-in fireplace

Source: Pinterest

 

Built-in fireplaces are recessed into the wall and can use wood, gas, or electricity as fuel options. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces require a chimney and vent, making them a more complicated installation that typically requires a licensed contractor. If you want a built-in fireplace without professional installation, fireplace inserts are a great option. They fit into your existing hearth or a new space you create and come in a variety of fuel types, but they do not require a chimney.

 

Mantel fireplace

Source: Pinterest

 

Mantel fireplaces are a great option when you want a fireplace in your space, but don’t want to alter the architecture of your home. These freestanding fireplaces have a wood mantle surrounding the design and are easy to set in place and use in a matter of minutes. Just push it up against the wall like you would a credenza or other large piece of furniture, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. Mantel fireplaces are a great choice for renters or anyone who moves frequently because they can be taken along with you.

 

Wall mount fireplace

Source: Pinterest

 

If you want to hang a fireplace on your wall but don’t want to go through the hassle of a major home improvement project, wall-mount fireplaces are the perfect solution. These fireplaces are attached to the wall in a manner that does not necessitate the installation of vents or chimneys. For your convenience, this design of fireplace is offered with three different fuel options, including natural gas, liquid propane, and electricity.

 

Media console fireplace

Source: Pinterest

 

A media console fireplace is an excellent option for those who don’t want to choose between displaying a television and having a fireplace. These units feature a beautiful piece of furniture designed to nestle under a tabletop or wall-mounted television, with an electric fireplace in the console itself. The majority of the units come with extra storage and display space, giving you the opportunity to show off arcade cabinets, literature, cable boxes, and other items.

 

Stove fireplace

Source: Pinterest

 

Stove fireplaces have a style that is both industrial and classic, and they are frequently found in log cabins, where they serve as a source of heat on chilly days. The majority of wood stoves and pellet stoves have a design known as a direct vent, which prevents smoke from building up within the room. More contemporary vent-free stove fireplaces are available for those who desire the aesthetic of a direct vent but do not want the additional work involved in installing one.

 

Log sets

Source: Pinterest

 

The expense of remodelling a fireplace is avoided by using a log set to create the illusion of a blazing fire. They are an excellent choice for older, built-in fireplaces that are not currently in use, such as those found in older or historic homes. Although they are powered by electricity or gas, these straightforward and self-contained units give the impression that logs have been stacked on a grate. The use of remote control is frequently included in the purchase of log sets as a convenience feature.

 

Fireplace: What are the fuel types used?

When it comes to fireplaces, the most common types of fuel that may be used can be broken down into three categories.

1. Wood fireplaces

A wood fireplace is the most traditional option and provides an authentic experience with the crackling sound and aroma of burning wood. However, it takes time to light a fire and allow it to burn down. Wood fireplaces require proper venting through a chimney to avoid smoke build-up in the house, and you need to constantly feed new logs into the fire to keep it going. After burning a fire in a wood fireplace, you’ll need to clean out the ash that accumulates at the bottom of the fireplace.

2. Electric fireplaces

If you are looking for convenience, an electric fireplace is a great option. These fireplaces are designed to resemble a wood-burning fireplace but without the need to feed wood into the fireplace. You either plug them into an outlet or have them hardwired into the electrical system. With the flip of a switch, these fireplaces turn on and begin producing both beauty and warmth. Often, these fireplaces have faux logs in the bottom that help complete the wood-burning look. Unlike other logs, these faux logs do not break down as the fireplace runs.

3. Gas fireplaces

Gas fireplaces are another popular option and are available in two types: liquid propane and natural gas. Liquid propane fireplaces make a great choice when you don’t have natural gas running into the house. Regulating the amount of gas coming through the line adjusts the height of the flame. Faux logs may help create the look of a wood fireplace, but they don’t produce ash and smoke or break down over time. Vented natural gas fireplaces are completely sealed off, drawing air from outside for combustion. Ventless natural gas fireplaces operate much like that of a gas stove, using the air from the surroundings for combustion and releasing heat into the space.

 

Fireplace: How to choose one?

Several considerations should be taken into account while deciding on a fireplace for your home. When looking for a wood, gas, or electric fireplace, it’s important to bear in mind the following:

Location

When choosing a location for your fireplace, it’s important to consider the seating arrangement of the room. If you want the fireplace to be a focal point that can be enjoyed from every seat in the room, you can decide where your fireplace wall accent should be. When determining where to install the fireplace so that it will be both useful and attractive, consider the layout of the space as well as the flow of traffic.

Size

Take accurate measures of the area you have available, then evaluate those measurements in light of the dimensions of the fireplace you’re thinking about purchasing to ensure a good fit. This is of utmost significance when considering built-in fireplace layouts. Be sure the fireplace’s scale is appropriate for the room it will be heating. A fireplace that is proportioned appropriately will give the room the appearance of balance and harmony.

Design

Determine which fireplace design will best complement the room’s existing decor by looking at the room’s overall design style. Everything from the surrounds to the trim work is fair game. Double-sided fireplaces are an option if your shared wall separates your bedroom and living room. For fireplace accent ideas that fit in with your home’s existing decor, look through design magazines or visit the websites of your favourite interior designers. Incorporate the fireplace’s design into the overall aesthetic of the space.

Fuel type

Choose from the three fuel kinds once you’ve limited your selections based on location, size, and design. Fireplaces made of wood are a great way to set the ambience in any room, while those running on electricity or gas are incredibly convenient and easy to use. When deciding on a fuel, take into account your tastes, way of life, and financial situation. Wood fireplaces are great if you enjoy the sights and sounds of a fire and aren’t bothered by the additional work involved in cleaning and maintenance. If you like the flexibility of turning the furnace on and off with the flip of a switch, an electric or gas fireplace is the way to go.

Heat

During the harsh winter months, a fireplace can provide welcome heat without having to switch on the central heating system. Consider the fireplace’s BTU output when you shop for a new one. More heat is produced by the fireplace when more BTUs are used. Most home fireplaces have an average BTU output of about 5,000. A low BTU gas fireplace could be the perfect choice for a warm climate home. You should opt for a fireplace with a higher BTU output if you live in a chilly climate and you truly want to warm up. Likewise crucial is the room’s dimensions. Smaller rooms need fewer BTUs to heat than larger ones because of the relative ease of heating a smaller space.

 

Fireplace: What accessories to choose?

Once you’ve settled on a fireplace to highlight in your home, it’s time to round off the purchase with a few complementary pieces of decor and embellishments. These accessories are not only practical, but they also add a stylish touch to the fireplace.

Hearth

A hearth is a raised grate that sits in front of the fireplace opening to support natural or faux wood logs. It provides proper airflow around the logs, ensuring they burn efficiently and safely. A hearth can be made of various materials, such as cast iron, steel, or even stone, and comes in different sizes to fit your fireplace opening.

Tool set

A natural wood fire needs some tending to, and that’s where a tool set comes in handy. A fireplace tool set usually includes a poker, shovel, brush, and tongs to help you build and maintain your fire. They also make it easier to clean up ashes and debris after the fire has burned out.

Ash disposal cans

When you burn wood in your fireplace, ash, and debris are left behind. To make cleaning up a bit easier, consider an ash disposal can. These cans are designed to be heat-safe and have tight-fitting lids to keep the ashes contained. Just scoop the ashes into the can, and you’re good to go.

Log rack

A wood-burning fireplace requires a steady supply of logs, and a log rack provides a decorative place to store them. It keeps the logs off the floor and away from moisture, so they stay dry and burn more efficiently. Log racks come in different sizes and materials to match your decor.

Fireplace screens

Fireplace screens are an important safety accessory that keeps children, pets, and your furnishings away from hot embers. They come in various styles, from simple wire mesh screens to decorative glass doors. A good screen should fit your fireplace opening snugly and be sturdy enough to withstand accidental bumps and knocks.

Coloured glass

Both electric and propane fireplaces can use coloured glass to replace traditional logs for a more modern look. You can choose from a range of hues to customise the look of your fireplace to your decor. Coloured glass is a great option for those who want a unique, eye-catching fireplace without the mess of traditional wood-burning fires.

Replacement parts

To keep your fireplace running smoothly year after year, consider shopping for replacement parts such as remote controls, propane conversion kits, extension kits, decorative surrounds, and more. Having these parts on hand will ensure that any issues can be quickly addressed so that you can continue to enjoy your fireplace for years to come.

 

Fireplace: Safety considerations

A fireplace is a great feature in any home, but safety should always be a top priority. Here are some important fireplace safety considerations:

Electric fireplaces

Think about going for an electric fireplace instead of a traditional one because they provide a more manageable burn and let you easily change the height of the flame.

Fireplace screens

It is imperative to use fireplace screens in front of wood-burning fireplaces because sparks might be produced when the wood is burned in the fireplace. By doing this, you will stop burning embers and sparks from flying out of the fireplace, where they could potentially cause harm or damage to your home.

Ventilation

Smoke is produced by wood-burning fireplaces, and in order to avoid it from piling up inside your home, you need to ensure that there is adequate ventilation. Ventilation can be provided through a chimney; however, it is important to keep the flue open while the fire is burning.

Smoke alarms

Installing a smoke alarm in the room’s entryway is a must if there is a fireplace within your home. Never put a smoke detector on the ceiling right above the fireplace since doing so could accidentally set off the alarm. Installing such a device in this location is strictly prohibited. For the highest level of protection, choose models that can identify not just smoke but also carbon monoxide.

 

FAQs

What kind of fireplace should I choose for my home?

The type of fireplace you choose depends on your personal preferences and the style of your home. Wood-burning fireplaces offer a traditional look and feel, while gas fireplaces are more convenient and offer better heat efficiency. Electric fireplaces provide a safe and easy option for those who want the ambience of a fireplace without the heat.

Can I install a fireplace myself?

Since a fireplace requires gas or electricity as well as a chimney or venting system, it's best to have a professional handle the installation. A professional can ensure the installation is done correctly and safely.

How often do I need to clean my fireplace?

It's important to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent the buildup of soot and debris, which can lead to fires and smoke damage. For wood-burning fireplaces, you should have your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected once a year. Gas fireplaces require less maintenance, but should still be cleaned annually.

Can I use my fireplace during a power outage?

Wood-burning fireplaces can be used during a power outage, but it's important to have plenty of dry firewood stored and ready to use. Gas fireplaces require electricity to ignite, so they cannot be used during a power outage.

Which safety precautions should I take when using my fireplace?

Yes, safety should be a top priority when using a fireplace. Always make sure the fireplace screen or doors are closed to prevent embers and sparks from flying out. Keep flammable items away from the fireplace, and never leave the fire unattended. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors near the fireplace and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com