Hearth and Home: Adding or Upgrading in a Fireplace Remodel

Fire and the hearth have been at the center of home life for as long as people have had homes. Until central heating arrived in the 20th century, nearly every house had at least one fireplace, and often one in every room.

Today we no longer depend on fireplaces for heat and cooking, but they remain popular for comfort, beauty and that cozy feeling of gathering around a fire. That is why so many homeowners choose to add or upgrade a fireplace during a remodel.

Types of Fireplaces

The fireplace has evolved more in the last 50 years than ever before, in shape, function and how the effect of fire is created.

Wood Burning

Traditional wood burning fireplaces remain a favorite. It is hard to beat the crackle of a real wood fire. The tradeoffs are smoke, fumes, ash cleanup and the need for a dry wood supply.

Gas

Gas fireplaces use natural gas and faux logs that look aflame but are never consumed. They start with the flick of a switch, give off real heat and leave no ash. Keep in mind that they still produce some fumes, and running a gas line can add cost and complexity.

Electric

Electric fireplaces are affordable, eco-friendly and can go almost anywhere. LED lighting and built-in heaters mimic a real fire, and they plug into an outlet or hardwire into your electrical system with no chimney or vent required.

Linear Fire Ribbon

The fire ribbon is a minimalist gas fireplace with shorter flames spread across a long, linear opening. Its low profile works well in smaller spaces and open layouts.

Indoor Fireplaces

Indoor fireplaces usually anchor the living or family room. Surround materials range from traditional brick and natural stone to modern tile, quartz or granite. An existing fireplace can usually be renovated to fit your style.

Balancing the Fireplace and the TV

One of the trickiest decisions in a modern living room is where to put the TV in relation to the fireplace. Plan this carefully before any work begins. One popular solution places a large screen and a smaller fire source, like a fire ribbon, on the same wall.

Bedroom Fireplaces

A bedroom fireplace is a highly desirable upgrade. A traditional wood burning unit is often possible but can be complex and costly. An electric fireplace is usually a safer, more cost effective choice for a bedroom.

Outdoor Fireplaces

An outdoor fireplace adds a wonderful vibe to a patio, pool area or quiet retreat. Outdoor designs can be simpler and even larger, with fewer concerns about venting, gas lines and heat transfer. With good planning, an outdoor fireplace can even include a baking oven as part of an outdoor kitchen. Brick and natural stone are the best materials because they stand up to the elements.

Fire ribbons work outdoors too, set into a stone ledge or a table surrounded by seating.

Removing or Converting an Existing Fireplace

Sometimes a fireplace no longer fits a family's needs. If yours does not work or rarely gets used, that space could serve a better purpose. Local rules may limit wood fires, or a family member may be sensitive to smoke.

The space can be repurposed with small changes, or the fireplace and venting can be removed entirely to add storage or even windows. Because this is a major architectural change, it is best done with professional help.

Ask the Experts

A fireplace is a great amenity for almost any home and can add to resale value. Whether you want to add a new fireplace or renovate an old one, Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling can help with every step. Explore our remodeling services, then call 678-450-1700 or contact us online.