Fireplace Installation: The Basics Of Selection
Installing a fireplace in your home is a great way to add ambiance to a room and even improve the home's resale value. If you've been wanting a fireplace and finally decided to take the plunge, the first step is deciding what type of unit you actually want. Here are a few of the key things to consider as you start shopping for that perfect fireplace addition for your home.
Fuel Source
In the past, fireplaces were always wood-burning units. That isn't the case anymore. You will have to determine what type of fuel source you are most interested in for your new fireplace as you make your selections.
Wood-burning fireplaces are traditional, and they provide you with that comforting, unique wood smoke smell that many people enjoy. They are fairly easy to take care of, though they do require cleaning regularly, including emptying ash and such from the fireplace bed. They also take more time to light, as you need to build the base with kindling, wood, and the like.
Electric fireplaces are convenient and easy because there's no external fuel source to worry about. They plug into your home's electrical wiring and you can turn the fireplace on or off with the flip of a switch. Since nothing actually burns in these fireplaces, there's no cleaning to be concerned with, either. These are great for those who want the ambiance of a fireplace without the smoke, mess, or cleanup.
Gas fireplaces are a bit of a compromise. You still have a burning fuel source, but you don't have the wood ash and embers to have to clean up later. A gas fireplace will be connected to a supply tank via gas lines, and you just have to turn it on when you want the fireplace to burn.
Fireplace Design
The next thing you need to determine is what type of design you want for your fireplace. Whether you're looking for something traditional, more modern, or even just an electric or gas insert placed in an existing, non-functional wood-burning fireplace that you want to restore. Sometimes it's best to contact your fireplace installation contractor for help with this decision. He or she can help you look through the options that are available and decide which one would best fit the decor and the design of your home.
For more information, and to choose the fireplace that you've been dreaming of, contact a fireplace installation and supply contractor near you. He or she will be happy to help you find and install the fireplace you've been wanting.
Check out http://www.villagefireplaceandbbq.com for more information.
