There are so many different ways to improve your home, and installing a fireplace can do wonders for your property. But it’s a big job and a significant change to your lifestyle. So, before you get a fireplace installed in time for this winter, what are a few things you need to know to be prepared?
Do You Have an Existing Chimney?
If you have an older home with an existing fireplace and chimney, it’s much easier to install a wood burner or open fire. Just get the chimney checked over and then cleaned by a professional chimney sweep first, then install the fire you want.
But if you have a newer property, you may need to have a chimney added to your home. This makes it a much larger job, although it does mean you can put the fireplace wherever you like.
Of course, another option is to forgo a chimney entirely and install a gas or electric fireplace. It doesn’t need special fuel and is easier and cleaner to light, but it does lose a bit of that country charm.
What Kind of Fireplace to Add?
If you go for a traditional fireplace, you have two main options.
The first is an open fire. Open fires are exactly what they say on the tin, it’s an open space where you can build and enjoy a fire. You can use wood and coal freely. Open fires are great for aesthetics, but not as great for efficiency, control, and safety.
A log burner or stove is more efficient than an open fire because you can control the flow of oxygen and more easily control the heat it puts out. It also burns fuel more slowly and won’t spit out sparks while it burns. You can even use the stove to cook on.
Other Tools
As well as the fire itself, you will need other tools to make it safe and easy to light. A poker and tongs are useful for handling the logs and anything else burning in the fire, which helps when lighting and controlling the fuel.
Speaking of which, make sure you have a handy place to store your fuel. This might include wood and coal, but don’t forget about kindling, paper, and matches or a lighter. It’s very hard to light a fire without something to get it started, and certainly not with just coal.
You should also get at least one heat proof glove when handling the stove and fire so you don’t burn yourself.
Brushes and shovels will help you clean the fireplace of ash, and you should keep a bucket nearby to store any ash that accumulates in and around the fire.
Finally, don’t forget a fire guard to protect your home from any flying sparks. This will also keep dogs and children away from the fire and can even diffuse the heat somewhat. This is a necessity if you have an open fire.