The Advantages of a Free Standing Fireplace
When people think of fireplaces they typically think of a traditional built-in design. However, free standing fireplaces can be equally beautiful and easy to set up.
Keep your firebox flush, level and plumb while you build it. Use a four-foot level frequently. Use glue sparingly. The blocks are sturdy enough to stand on their own. Additional glue is used only for insurance.
Easy to Install
A freestanding fireplace can be a great alternative to a chimney that's installed in your home. Installing them is fast and simple, since no additional renovations are required. The flue pipe has to be connected to your ceiling and roof. If it is done by a professional the process usually takes a few hours. This means you can have the fireplace running within the same day it is installed.
If you are considering buying a free standing fireplace, there are several factors to take into consideration before making a purchase. Included in this are the size and style of your home, as well as the ease of installing. It is also recommended to be sure to read the manufacturer's guidelines for the fireplace you have chosen to ensure that you're following all of the steps correctly.
Free standing fireplaces are also less expensive than those with built-in units. This doesn't mean that they aren't as attractive or of high quality. There are freestanding fireplaces that will fit any budget and preference. If you're seeking a low-cost model or a luxury design fireplace, there is certain to be an ideal choice for you.
You will also be able to save space by using a stove that is freestanding. They do not have to be built in to the wall so you can put them in inside rooms in which a traditional fireplace might not be suitable. This includes smaller spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms. You can also move these fireplaces around your house to alter its appearance.
Think about using wood logs for fuel for a freestanding fire place. Burning wood reduces the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere. You can also use an electric fire, which is more environmentally friendly and uses less energy. It also warms up your home more efficiently than a gas fireplace.
No Ventilation Needed
When burning wood or fireplacesandstoves other fuels, they produce water and byproducts that need to be vented to the outdoors. These byproducts can cause problems within the home, like peeling wallpaper and damaged wood surfaces. Free standing gas fireplaces do not produce these byproducts and do not require venting to the outside. This allows them to be installed in rooms where a traditional fireplace cannot.
Fireplaces of this kind are available from brick and mortar fireplace stores and big-box stores for home improvement and online. The most extensive selection is available on the internet, where prices tend to be the least expensive. It is recommended to visit a brick and mortar shop in your locality if possible. A professional can help you decide the style and size that will best suit your space and provide suggestions for accessories such as mantels, fireplace screens and more.
If you do purchase a gas fireplace from the internet it is crucial to ensure that the product is UL approved. Also, you should check the model's technical specifications for safety features such as oxygen depletion sensors, as well as an automatic shut-off mechanism. Some models have blowers that circulate air and make it feel warmer in the room.
Ventless gas fireplaces use propane or natural gas, and do not require a chimney flue unlike traditional combustion fireplaces. The fireplaces utilize special burners to burn gas quickly and generate heat without releasing carbon dioxide or smoke.
Some models can be set against the wall. Others may need to be recessed into the floor for an elegant appearance. If you opt for a recessed model, make sure it's not placed directly in front of an heating or air conditioning system. Otherwise, it may be difficult for the unit to keep the room heated.
Certain models of gas fireplaces offer venting options like direct vent or B-vent technology. Direct vent systems make use of a sealed combustion chamber and an exhaust pipe that transports combustion byproducts out through the roof. Contrary to this, a B-vent system does not have vent pipes and instead relies on a higher temperature of combustion to eliminate byproducts.
Easy to Clean
Free standing fireplaces can be a great alternative to traditional wood burning ones. Wood stoves are difficult to maintain and use. You need to clean the ashes, stack logs and a kindling to make your fire and then wait for it ignite to produce heat. You also have to be cautious not to feed too much your fire, and keep an eye on it to ensure that it doesn't get out of control. These things can be difficult to manage for those who live in apartments or are very busy.
A lot of people do not have the time to do all of these tasks. They opt to purchase a gas fireplace that is freestanding. These fireplaces can be installed behind existing fireplaces or in rooms that have no chimneys or structures inside the walls. They come in various styles to suit any aesthetic or decor.
Gas fireplaces are generally very easy to clean. The glass display of the fireplace is easily cleaned using an abrasive cloth or towel (preferably non-lint) and warm soapy water. It is crucial not to use any abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the glass partition. It is also recommended not to use any cleaning products that contain flammable chemicals since they can reduce the lifespan of your fireplace.
Electric fireplaces are also very easy to maintain. You should always check the manufacturer's website or the owner's manual for specific instructions on how you can clean the fireplace. In general, you'll not be able to open up the unit because of the electrical components within, however it is possible to clean out the heater blower and flame effect components.
This is why it is essential to ensure that your fireplace is fully powered and plugged in before you begin cleaning it. It is also important to disconnect it from the outlet or isolate the power source if it's wired into your home. After you have completed this, you can start cleaning your fireplace.
Decorate
Free standing fireplaces can be incorporated in any room. They may not be like the sleek built-in fireplaces, but they be a nice addition to the decor. You can choose from a range of styles and sizes to match your interior decor. They can be put in any room and are a great choice for homes without chimneys or brick walls.
Some freestanding fireplaces look like wood-burning appliances, whereas others have a more modern appearance. The models that resemble wood-burning fireplaces are equipped with flames that flash as if they were real logs. They can be set to emit a soft glow, or a dramatic display. Freestanding fireplaces can be made out of iron or metal, and can be finished with an application of paint that matches the decor of your home.
Many freestanding fireplaces have glass doors that can be closed and opened quickly. This is a great safety feature for children and pets. Certain models have handles that allow you to keep the doors closed and can be anchored to the fireplace using hook and loop adhesive strips. There are some models that have mesh screens, which must always be secured to the fireplace with these strips to stop children from reaching into the flame. The screen should be large enough to cover at minimum an inch on each side and three inches is the most preferred.
A freestanding fireplace can be heated by either an infrared heater or a fan, depending on the type of fireplace. The first uses an air blower to blow hot air out and can heat up 400 square feet. The latter provides infrared heat to directly warm objects within the room. It can also provide a greater heat source of 1,000 square feet.
1stDibs offers a range of freestanding fireplaces that are electric that include Victorian, Arts and Crafts, and mid-century designs. You can even find antique free standing fireplaces that were manufactured as early as the 19th century. There are more recent designs from manufacturers such as Preway and Condon-king.