Things To Know Before Your In-Home Fireplace Consultation

Adding a fireplace to your home is a great way to bring warmth and comfort to your home, while also increasing its value. With so many different types of fireplaces, designs, and facing materials, it’s important to go into a consultation with a few goals in mind. Here are some things for you to consider, to help you make the most of your in-home fireplace consultation from Coalway.

Is this for a new or existing home? 

During the construction process of a new home, new addition, or remodel, it is a great time to install a fireplace. However, it is still possible to install a fireplace in an existing home without paying exorbitant fees. A fireplace is very customizable, so it can really enhance a room whether it is new or old.

If existing, is there a fireplace already installed that will need to be removed? 

Sometimes, an existing fireplace can be utilized by doing some upgrades like installing a chimney liner, adding new face material (like stone), and mantel, or installing a high efficient insert. Utilizing an existing unit is not always a good option, and sometimes it is best to just remove the old unit and then install a new fireplace in its place.

Will this new fireplace be wood-burning, electric, gas, or propane? 

This is a question that is incredibly important and it will ultimately impact the cost, maintenance, and ease of operation. A wood-burning unit will require a Class A chimney, manual operation, disposal of ashes, and an annual chimney sweep. A gas fireplace is efficient, low-maintenance, and easier to operate. These units also typically require a flue, but have more venting options available than wood-burning units. Typically, gas fireplaces also do not provide as many BTUs of heat output. Both gas and wood fireplaces can (in most cases) be operated without electrical power during outages. This makes them great sources for backup heating when needed.

In general, when thinking about a specific burn unit you need, consider the type of fuel available at your home and go from there.

If the fireplace is natural gas, propane, or electric, where will the fuel source be located? 

If you’re planning to have gas, propane, or electric as your fuel source for the fireplace, then the fuel needs to be supplied to the fireplace from somewhere else in the home. This will need to happen through a dedicated supply pipe, which will need to be installed in between the fireplace and the location of the fuel source.

What facing material would you like; stone, brick, tile, other, or don’t know yet? 

The facing material is going to have a major impact on the design and aesthetics of your new fireplace. Are you looking for something traditional with detailed iron or stone? Or, sleek and minimalist glass? Look at different fireplace designs to get an idea of the style you’re looking for.

Will this fireplace setting be traditional, rustic, contemporary, or transitional?

This is another design-related question that will determine many decisions regarding your fireplace installation. If you’re building the fireplace in a room with a rustic design, you aren’t going to want to install something sleek and modern. If your fireplace setting is traditional or rustic, you’ll want a fireplace design that uses beautiful flames and realistic logs. If your setting is contemporary or transitional, then you’ll likely want something with more contemporary shapes and materials.

Would you like a mantel?

A fireplace does not require a mantel, but this can add to the aesthetic of the fireplace and make it a focal point for the room. While the original purpose of a mantel was to catch smoke before it entered the room, this is no longer an issue for most fireplaces. However, without a mantel, the area directly above the fireplace can tend to look bare. This is why many people install a mantelpiece for house decorations or other personal belongings.

Would you like a raised or floor-level hearth?

The hearth is the non-combustible floor in front of your fireplace. While some fireplaces sit on the floor, others are raised to give the fireplace a slightly grander appearance. You’ll have to factor in your design goals into your decision to find out which one is right for you.

Once you’ve got a basic idea of the answers to these questions, we can help figure out the best fit for your needs!

If you’re in search for some great heating units this season, read our “9 Amazing Heating Options For You“.

Our new Fireplace Visualizer is also a great tool to get an idea of what type of fireplace setting you would like.