Recently I visited a friend who shares a quirky mountain home with her husband and three dogs. In winter, we gather in my friend’s living room since her kitchen is barely bigger than a smartphone. But something is always missing. They don't use the fireplace. In fact, the fireplace is filled with books just to make use of the space. Cute in a magazine but so disappointing in real life.
The home was built in the 1940s and to be fair, that fireplace is showing its age. The couple lit a fire once, promptly filled the living room with smoke, and never made a fire again. Recently, they decided enough was enough. They wanted a hearth to gather around.
Fireplace renovations are not always a straightforward choice. It’s an investment and process, and LOTS of decisions.
Here are three things to consider when you’re upgrading your fireplace.
budget, Needs, and wants
We sat down with the couple and discussed their budget, needs, and wants.
To stay within budget, the couple decided on an insert to make the existing fireplace usable. We also recommended a new mantel to freshen up the look and make it possible for them to safely hang their flat-screen TV above the fireplace.
One concern the couple brought up was the cost of installation. Installation is an expense that’s difficult to figure out in a DIY project, if you don’t have the expertise. At first, my friends thought they could install the insert themselves. Technically, yes… but installing an insert, especially in an older home, is not a simple DIY project. It’s so much more than measuring to make sure the insert fits perfectly. A professional will look at the big picture of venting, electrical and gas connections, clearances, and installation challenges that might not be immediately obvious such as cracked masonry chimney. On installation day, they will come equipped with the correct pipe, fittings, and other accessories. Nothing is left to chance!
When we told the couple that we would handle everything - every step and all the minutiae of the project from start to finish, they realized they could kick back, enjoy the process without a worry in the world.
Fuel
Next, the couple discussed fuel. My friends wanted to heat the great room which eliminated electric fireplaces and left a choice of gas or wood-burning. Today, fuel comes down to personal preference.
Thanks to advances in efficiency and strict EPA compliance rules, wood stoves and gas stoves are both great choices. You can burn EPA-certified wood stoves on Denver’s infamous “no burn” air quality days - and feel good about it!
The house had natural gas and an ample supply of free firewood on the property. After some discussion, the couple opted for the convenience of gas.
You should have seen “the look” that my friend gave her husband when he insisted he wanted a real wood fire and would love to split, stack, and carry wood. He quickly got the message! Don’t worry, he was happy about choosing gas the minute he saw the gas fireplace inserts in our showroom, with their realistic flames, cozy heat, and zero work.
Style
Like many couples, there was a lot of back-and-forth about style. We’ll be the first to say that there are so many style choices that it can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help you narrow it down to the one that’s just right!
The couple chose the Kozy Heat Chaska 34L with a Mission Screen Front in Vintage Bronze with a flat black surround to complement their rustic mountain home.
The Kozy Heat Chaska 34i on display in our Evergreen showroom
Success!
Today, my friends host more parties than ever and we gather where we should: around the fire!
Upgrading a fireplace is a big decision based on your budget and needs, fuel preference, and style. Since there are always challenges with any renovation, it makes sense to hire NFI-Certified pros to support you with every choice and every step from start to finish. We are truly one-stop-shopping when it comes to the fireplace of your dreams!
Come by the showroom or call us to get your fireplace upgrade started. We can’t wait to hear about your project!
