The Advantages of a Free Standing Fireplace
Many people think of an in-built fireplace when they think of fireplaces. However, free-standing fireplaces can be equally charming and easy to set up.
When you build your firebox, make sure it is level, flush and level. Use a four foot level regularly. Glue sparingly - the blocks are sturdy enough to withstand their own weight however, any glue added is merely insurance.
Easy to Install
A freestanding fireplace can be a great alternative to a chimney that's built into your home. They can be installed quickly and easily, with no extra renovations required in your home. This is due to the fact that they only require the flue pipe through your roof and ceiling. If it is done by a professional, this usually takes only several hours. This means that you can have the fireplace up and running on the same day as it is put up.
If you are thinking of buying a free standing fire there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Included in this are the size and style of your home, and the ease of installing. You should also read the manufacturer's instructions carefully for the fireplace you have chosen to ensure you are following the steps correctly.
Another reason to opt for free-standing fireplaces is that they are cheaper than fireplaces with built-in units. However, this doesn't mean that they're not as beautiful or of a high-end. There are freestanding fireplaces that will fit any budget and preference. There is a model for all, whether you're looking for an affordable model or a high-end one that is expensive.
You can also reduce space when you use a free-standing stove fireplace. Because they do not have to be built into the wall, you can put them in rooms that would not normally be capable of accommodating the traditional fireplace. This includes smaller spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms. You can also move fireplaces around your home to change its appearance.
You can use wood logs for fuel for an open-air fire place. Wood is a renewable resource, and burning it helps reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Alternately, you can opt for an electric fireplace that uses less energy than wood and is therefore eco-friendly. It also warms up your home more efficiently than gas fireplaces.
No Ventilation Needed
Burning fuels such as wood or other creates moisture and byproducts that have to be vented outside. These byproducts can cause problems in the home such as peeling wall paper or warped wood surfaces. Free standing gas fireplaces do not produce these byproducts and thus don't require venting to the outside. This makes them able to be placed in rooms that traditional fireplaces cannot.
Fireplaces of this kind are available from brick and mortar fireplace stores, big-box stores for home improvement and also online. The greatest selection of fireplaces is online, where the prices tend to be the least expensive. It is recommended to visit a brick and mortar store in your locality if possible. A professional can help you determine the style and size that will best fit your space and suggest accessories such as mantels fireplace screens, and more.
If you do purchase a fireplace on the internet it is essential to ensure that the fireplace is UL approved. You should also check the model's technical specifications for safety features, such as oxygen depletion sensors and an automatic shut-off mechanism. Some models also have blowers that circulate air and make it feel warmer in the room.
Ventless gas fireplaces run on propane or natural gas and do not require a chimney flue, like traditional combustion fireplaces. The fireplaces use specialized burners to burn the gas quickly and produce heat without producing carbon dioxide or smoke.
Certain models can be positioned against the wall. Others may have to be recessed in the floor for an elegant appearance. If you choose a recessed model, you must make sure the unit is not located close to a heating or cooling system, or it may be difficult to keep the space warm.
Some models of gas fireplaces come with venting options like direct vent and B-vent technology. Direct vent systems use a sealed combustion area and vent pipes to move combustion byproducts through the roof. In contrast the B-vent system does not utilize vent pipes, and instead relies on a higher combustion temperature to eliminate byproducts.
Easy to Clean
Freestanding fireplaces are a great alternative to wood burning fireplaces. Wood stoves can be difficult to maintain and operate. You need to clean the pile of ashes, stack logs, and a kindling to create your fire, and then wait for it ignite to produce heat. You must also be careful not to over-feed your fire, and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't get out of control. These things can be difficult to accomplish for those who live in apartments or are very busy.
However, many people do not have the time or motivation to complete all of these tasks. This is the reason they opt to buy a free standing gas fireplace. They can be placed 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 firebox is easily cleaned using the help of a towel or cloth (preferably non-lint) and warm soapy water. Avoid using abrasive cleaning products, as they can damage the glass. It is also recommended to avoid using any cleaning products containing toxic chemicals, since they could shorten the fireplace's lifespan.
Electric fireplaces are also easy to keep clean. Go through the owner's manual or the manufacturer's site for more detailed instructions. You will not be allowed to open the unit due to electrical components. However, you can dust the heater blower or components that produce flames.
For this reason, it is essential to ensure that your fireplace is fully connected and shut off before you begin to clean it. You should also unplug it from the outlet or shut off the power source if it's hard-wired to your home. Once you've done this, you can start cleaning your fireplace.
Decorative
Free standing fireplaces can be added in any room. While they might not be as sleek as built-in fireplaces but they can add an appealing look to any space. You can choose from a range of styles and sizes to complement your interior design. They can be put in any room and are an excellent option for homes without chimneys or brick walls.
Some freestanding fireplaces appear to be wood-burning stoves, while others have a more modern appearance. The models that resemble wood-burning stoves feature flames that flicker just like real logs, and they can be set to emit the soft glow of a more striking display. Some freestanding fireplaces are made from metal or iron, and they can be adorned with a coat of paint to match the decor of your home.
A lot of freestanding fireplaces feature glass doors that can be closed and opened quickly. This is a great security feature for children as well as pets. Some models have handles that can be used to secure the doors and can be connected to the fireplace with hook and loop adhesive tape. There are also some models with 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 at least one inch 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 former makes use of fans to blow out hot air and can heat up to 400 square feet. The latter uses infrared energy to directly warm objects within the room. It also has the ability to be used to heat larger areas of 1,000 square feet.
1stDibs offers a variety of freestanding electric fireplaces that include Victorian, Arts and Crafts, and mid-century designs. There are also antique free standing fireplaces that were made in the 19th Century. Preway and Condon King are two manufacturers who here offer more modern designs.