The Advantages of a Free Standing Fireplace
When people think of fireplaces, many think of a traditional built-in design. Freestanding fireplaces are equally attractive and simple to install.
When you build your firebox, ensure it's flush, level, and plumb. Use a four-foot level often. Glue sparingly - the blocks are strong enough to hold their own, but extra glue is just a way to protect yourself.
Easy to Install
A free standing fireplace is a great alternative to a built-in chimney. They can be installed quickly and easily, without any additional work in your home. The flue pipe just has to be connected to your ceiling and roof. If done by an expert the process usually takes about an hour. This means that you can get your fireplace up and running the same day it's installed.
Before purchasing a free-standing fireplace, you need to consider several factors. Included in this are the size and style of your home, and the ease of installation. It is also recommended to take the time to read the instructions of the manufacturer for your particular fireplace to ensure that you're following all of the steps correctly.
Another reason to go with a free standing fireplace is that they're cheaper than fireplaces with built-in units. This doesn't mean that they are less attractive or of a higher quality. In fact, you can find many free standing fireplaces that are available to suit your tastes and budget. Whether you are seeking a low-cost model or a luxury contemporary fireplace, there's certain to be an ideal choice for you.
You will also save space with a stove that is freestanding. Because they do not have to be built into the wall, you can install the fireplace in rooms which would normally not be suitable for an ordinary fireplace. This includes smaller rooms like bathrooms and bedrooms. You can also move fireplaces around your home to change its appearance.
Think about using wood logs to fuel a freestanding fire pit. 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 fire fireplace that consumes less energy than wood and is therefore eco-friendly. It also heats your home more effectively than a gas fire place.
No Ventilation Needed
Burning wood or other fuels produces moisture and byproducts which have to be vented outside. If these byproducts remain in the home, they could cause problems like peeling wallpaper or warped wood surfaces. Free standing gas fireplaces don't produce these byproducts and don't require venting to the outside. This makes them able to be placed in spaces where a traditional fireplace can't.
These kinds of fireplaces are available at brick-and-mortar fireplace stores and big-box stores for home improvements, and online. The most extensive selection is available online, where the prices tend to be the least expensive. However, if you can go to a brick and mortar store in your local area it's a good idea. A professional can help you determine the style and size that will best suit your space and suggest accessories such as mantels fireplace screens, and more.
If you are planning to purchase a gas fireplace online it is crucial to ensure that the fireplace is UL approved. Check the technical specifications of the fireplace for safety features, such as oxygen depletion sensor and automatic shut-off systems. Certain models come with blowers that circulate air and make the room feel warmer.
Ventless gas fireplaces are usually powered by propane or natural gas, and don't require chimney flues like traditional combustion fireplaces. The fireplaces utilize special burners to burn the gas quickly and generate heat without producing carbon dioxide or smoke.
While certain models can be set against a wall, other units may require a recess into the floor of your living area for a more decorative look. If you do choose a recessed model, make sure the unit is not located right over a heating and cooling system, or it could be difficult to keep the space warm.
Some models of gas fires have venting options like direct vent or B-vent technology. Direct vent systems utilize a sealed combustion room and a vent pipe to carry combustion byproducts to the roof. In contrast B-vent systems do not utilize vent pipes and instead relies on a higher combustion temperature to eliminate byproducts.
Easy to Clean
Free standing fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional wood burning ones. Wood stoves can be difficult to maintain and operate. You must clean the ashes out, stack logs, kindling and wait for your fire to ignite to produce heat. You must also be careful to not over-feed the fire, and be sure to keep an eye on it to ensure that it doesn't go out of control. All of these can be a challenge for those who are busy or might live in apartments.
A lot of people do not have the time to do all of these tasks. This is why they decide to purchase a freestanding gas fireplace. These fireplaces can also be installed in rooms without chimneys or structures within the walls. They also come in a variety of styles to match different aesthetics and decor.
Gas fireplaces are typically easy to clean. The glass display of the fireplace is easily cleaned using an abrasive cloth or towel (preferably lint-free) and warm soapy water. You should avoid using any abrasive cleaning products since they could scratch the glass. It is also advised not to use any cleaning products which contain flammable chemicals because they will reduce the lifespan of your fireplace.
Electric fireplaces are also easy to keep clean. Always visit the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual for specific instructions on how you can clean the fireplace. In general, you will not be able to open up the unit due to the electrical components within, however it is possible to dust out the heater blower and flame effect components.
For this reason, it is important to make sure that your fireplace is powered and plugged in before you begin cleaning it. You should also unplug it from the electrical outlet or isolate the power source if it is wired into your home. Once you have done this, you are able to begin the process of cleaning your fireplace.
Decorate
Free standing fireplaces can be added to any room. They may not look as sleek as the built-in fireplaces, but they still add a decorative touch. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles so you'll find one that matches your interior decor. They can be installed in any room in the house and are a great choice for homes that cannot support a traditional chimney or brick wall.
Some freestanding fireplaces are built to resemble wood-burning stoves, while others are more modern in appearance. The models that resemble wood-burning fireplaces are equipped with flames that flicker like real logs. They can be set to emit a soft glow, or a dramatic display. Some freestanding fireplaces are constructed from iron or metal and they can be finished with the application of paint to match your home's color scheme.
The majority of freestanding fireplaces come equipped with glass doors that are simple to open and close and shut, which is a security feature for children and pets. Certain models have handles that can be used to secure the doors. They can also be connected to the fireplace with hook and loop adhesive tape. There are some models with mesh screens which should always be anchored to the fireplace with these strips to stop children from reaching into the flame. The screen should be big enough to cover at least one inch on each side, with three inches being the most preferred.
Depending on the model the fireplace can be equipped with either a fan or infrared heating technique. The former uses a fan to blow out hot air that can heat up to 400 square feet. The latter is able to use infrared heat to directly warm objects in the room. It also has the ability to provide a greater heat source of 1,000 square feet.
1stDibs offers a wide selection of freestanding electric fireplaces, including Victorian, Arts and Crafts, and mid-century designs. Antique free standing fireplaces dating back to the 19th century are available. Preway and Condon King are two brands which offer more contemporary designs.