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choosing the right fireplace for your home
Choosing the Right Fireplace for your Home
There are several important things to consider
before selecting a fireplace for your home. The three most
important factors are appearance, size and the material
in which the fireplace is made of. Stone, tile, marble,
brick, wood, and concrete are the most common materials.
You can also choose between electric, gas, propane and cast
iron. To create the appearance you are looking for, a mix
of materials can be added to your selection.
Fireplaces come in all shapes and sizes.
Traditional wood-burning fireplaces are slowly being replaced
by clean-burning fireplaces, but many people still appreciate
the crackling sound of real wood burning. However, traditional
wood burning fireplaces are designed with an open face.
Be prepared for more maintenance and a certain amount of
heat loss due to this. Clean-burning fireplaces, on the
other side, are the most efficient in wood burning and also
easier to maintain.
Gas fireplaces are growing in popularity.
Many find them attractive because you can select a gas burning
fireplace that either offers a modern appeal or the traditional
elegance of old fashion wood burning fireplaces. They come
in direct vent and vent free options. Direct vent eliminates
the need for a chimney and is the best choice if you are
trying to protect the air in your home. You can also choose
between natural gas and propane. Overall, gas-burning fireplaces
come in an array of styles, are flexible, and incredibly
comforting.
Propane fireplaces have the added convenience
of reduced heat loss, the ability of turning heat off with
a switch, and they eliminate untidy clean-ups. Propane fireplaces
compare to wood burning fireplaces and stoves because they
provide fast heat, vent less options and variable heat controls.
Propane fireplaces come in several designs including, wall
insets, masonry, and freestanding. Also, both radiant and
convective heat options are available.
Electric fireplaces are the easier, maintenance
friendly alternative. They provide fast heat and can be
turned off at night to save electricity. Installation is
very easy and they can be placed almost anywhere. The environment
enjoys electric fireplaces because they are pollution free,
yet they look very similar to wood or gas fireplaces. Many
models are available ranging from old fashion stove designs
to modern sleekness. Most electric models cost anywhere
from $500 dollars to $1500.
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