The Advantages of a Free Standing Fireplace
When people think of fireplaces, they often picture a traditional built-in model. However, free standing fireplaces can be equally attractive and easy to install.
As you construct your firebox, keep it flush, level, and plumb. Use a four-foot level frequently. Glue sparingly - the blocks are strong enough to withstand their own weight, but extra glue is just insurance.
Easy to Install
A free standing fireplace is an excellent alternative to a built in chimney. Installation is quick and simple, since there is no need for additional work. The flue pipe just must be inserted into your roof and ceiling. This usually only takes a couple of hours when completed by an expert. This means that you can have the fireplace up and running on the same day as it is put up.
If you are considering buying a free standing fire, there are several aspects to think about before you purchase. Included in this are the dimensions and style of your home, as well as the ease of installing. It is also recommended to take the time to read the instructions of the manufacturer for your particular fireplace to ensure you are following all of the steps properly.
Another reason to choose free-standing fireplaces is that they are cheaper than fireplaces with built-in units. This doesn't mean that they are less appealing or of a higher quality. There are freestanding fireplaces to suit any budget and preference. If you're searching for a budget-friendly model or a luxurious design fireplace, there is certain to be an ideal choice for you.
You will also save space with the free-standing stove fireplace. They are not built in to the wall so you can use them even in rooms where a traditional fireplace may not be suitable. This includes smaller rooms like bathrooms and bedrooms. You can also move these fireplaces around the house to change the look of your home.
You can use wood logs to fuel an open-air fire place. Wood is a renewable resource, burning it can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere. You can also use an electric fireplace, which uses less energy than wood and is therefore green. It also heats your home more efficiently than a gas fireplace.
No Ventilation is Required
The burning of wood or other fuels creates moisture and byproducts that need to be vented outdoors. These byproducts can cause issues within the home, like peeling wallpaper and damaged wood surfaces. Free standing ventless gas fireplaces do not produce these byproducts, and therefore do not require venting to the outside. This allows them to fit into rooms where traditional fireplaces can't.
Fireplaces of this kind are available from brick and mortar fireplace stores, home improvement big-box stores and also online. On the internet, you'll find the most extensive selection and the cheapest prices. It is recommended to visit a brick and mortar shop within your city if you can. A professional can help you decide what style and dimensions fit your space the best and offer suggestions for accessories such as mantels, fireplace screens and more.
If you decide to purchase a gas fireplace online it is crucial to make sure the product is UL approved. You should also examine the technical specifications of the fireplace for safety features, such as oxygen depletion sensors and an automatic shut-off system. Some models also include blowers that circulate air and make it feel warmer in the room.
Ventless gas fireplaces are usually powered by propane or natural gas, and don't require a chimney flue as typical combustion fireplaces. The fireplaces have specially designed burners to burn the gas quickly and generate heat without producing carbon dioxide or smoke.
While certain models can be placed against a wall, other units may require a recess into the floor of your living here area for an attractive look. If you choose a recessed model, be sure that the unit isn't placed directly over a heating and cooling system, or it will be difficult to keep the space warm.
Certain models of gas fireplaces have venting options, like direct vent or B-vent technology. Direct vent systems make use of a sealed combustion chamber and vent pipe that is used to carry combustion byproducts to the roof. In contrast, a B-vent system does not utilize vent pipes and instead relies on a higher temperature of combustion to remove byproducts.
Easy to Clean
Free standing fireplaces can be a great alternative to traditional wood burning ones. Wood stoves take a lot of work to operate and maintain. It is necessary to get rid of the ashes and stack logs, sortling, and wait for the fire to start burning to create heat. You also have to be cautious not to feed too much your fire, and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't get out of control. All of these can be a challenge for those who are busy or may live in an apartment.
Many people don't have the time to complete all of these tasks. They opt to purchase a free-standing gas fireplace. They can be put in on top of existing fireplaces or in rooms with no chimneys or structures inside the walls. They are available in different styles to suit any aesthetic or design.
In general gas fireplaces are easy to maintain. The glass display can be cleaned using a damp cloth or towel (preferably with no dust) and warm soapy tap water. You should avoid using any cleaning products that are abrasive since they could scratch the glass. It is also advised not to use any cleaning products which contain flammable chemicals because these will shorten the life of your fireplace.
Electric fireplaces can also be cleaned with ease. You should always check the manufacturer's website or the owner's manual to find specific instructions on how to clean the fireplace. You won't be able to open the unit due to the electrical components. However, you can clean the heater blower or flame effect components.
It is essential to switch off and fully plug in your fireplace prior to cleaning it. It is also important to unplug the fireplace from the outlet that it is connected to, or shut off the source of power in the case of a hard-wired fireplace. After you have completed this, you can begin the process of cleaning your fireplace.
Decorative
Free standing fireplaces can be incorporated in any room. Although they may not look as sleek as built-in models however, they can be an appealing look to any room. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles so you'll be able to choose one that is compatible with the decor of your home. They can be used in any room in the house and are a great choice for homes that cannot support a traditional masonry chimney or brick wall.
Some freestanding fireplaces are designed to resemble wood-burning stoves, while others are more contemporary in appearance. The models that look like wood-burning fireplaces are equipped with flames that flash as if they were real logs. They can be set up to emit a soft glow, or a dramatic display. Some freestanding fireplaces are made from metal or iron, and can be finished with an application of paint that matches your home's color scheme.
A lot of freestanding fireplaces feature glass doors that can be shut and opened quickly. This is a fantastic safety feature for children and pets. Certain models have handles that help you keep the doors closed and can be secured to the fireplace by hook and loop adhesive strips. There are models with mesh screens, which must always be secured to the fireplace using these strips to prevent children from getting into the fire. The screen should be at least one inch on each side. Three inches is preferred.
A freestanding fireplace can be heated using either an infrared heating device or a fan, depending on the model. The first makes use of a blower to blow hot air out and provide 400 square feet of heat. The second uses infrared heat which is used to heat objects directly in the room. It can be used to heat a space of 1,000 square foot.
1stDibs offers a variety of electric freestanding fireplaces which include Victorian, Arts and Crafts and mid-century designs. Antique free standing fireplaces that date back to the 19th century are available. Preway and Condon King are two brands that offer more recent designs.