As the fall season approaches, we all start to think about colorful leaves, warm apple cider and, of course, fireplaces. Fireplaces are incredibly desirable home amenities and many homeowners choose to have them installed around this time of year. However, a fireplace is a significant addition to any home, and choosing the perfect fireplace for you requires some forethought. Here are 5 questions to consider before adding your new fireplace.

What is your budget?

There can be an incredible range in price points for fireplaces. You can choose anything from the most basic, functional units to premium, luxury models. A variety of factors can contribute to the cost. Before choosing a fireplace, consider your budget and how far you’d like that budget to stretch. Not sure what you can get for your money? Brick + Ember Outfitters would be happy to talk you through your options and offer some estimates.

Where would your fireplace go?

Before you can decide where to install your fireplace, you need to consider your motivations. Are you more concerned with effective and practical space heating? Then you should put the new fireplace in the most-used room of the house (other than the kitchen) — usually a family room or great room. Alternatively, you might consider installing the fireplace in a particularly chilly corner of the house — maybe an office or guestroom. Are you more concerned with personal enjoyment than financial payback? Then you might add a luxurious fireplace to the master suite or even an outdoor fireplace for entertaining on the patio. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

What are your expectations for fireplace maintenance?

Are you looking for a “no muss, no fuss” fireplace? Then a vent-free gas fireplace might be the right choice for you. With a gas fireplace, you can start a fire with the simple flick of a switch. Vent-free gas fireplaces also require little maintenance, as they produce no ash. By contrast, vented gas and wood burning fireplaces require significantly more work. With wood burning fireplaces you need to acquire and appropriately store your fuel and carefully build and maintain your fire with kindling. Both wood and vented gas fireplaces produce residue and require regular sweeping to remove creosote and carbon buildup. That said, though, if you don’t mind the maintenance and are looking for a labor of love, nothing compares to the crackle of logs and comforting smell of a wood burning fire. For further information on the difference between vent-free gas, vented gas, and wood burning fireplaces, check out this blog.

What are your expectations for heat output?

To determine how much heat is appropriate, it’s important to seek expert advice. Your fireplace works in conjunction with your furnace to heat your home and, if orchestrated properly, can save on energy costs. Some homes even see a reduction in heating bills by 20-40%. If an eco-friendly lifestyle is important to you, experts can also help you find the most energy-efficient models for both gas and wood burning fireplaces. Brick + Ember Outfitters would be happy to offer professional guidance and talk you through the heat output and energy efficiency of your new fireplace.

What is your home décor style?

Let’s not forget the aesthetic factor. You want a fireplace that reflects your personal style and complements the existing features of your home. A new fireplace can be customized to suit any taste — from quaint, traditional design to a sleek, modern look. What does your dream fireplace look like? Brick + Ember Outfitters can help you design a beautiful fireplace that will serve as the focal point of the room.

These factors are important to consider when adding a fireplace to your home. However, once you’ve evaluated these questions, you will be well on your way to enjoying your new addition in the winter months. Brick + Ember Outfitters would be happy to talk you through every consideration of your project and create the perfect fireplace for your home. Contact us today to get the process started.

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