How To Change A Fireplace

A fireplace is a great way to add warmth and ambiance to your home. However, over time, fireplaces can become outdated or inefficient. If you're thinking about changing your fireplace, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

1. Type of Fireplace

The first thing you need to decide is what type of fireplace you want. There are three main types of fireplaces:

Wood-burning fireplaces are the most traditional type of fireplace. They burn wood logs to create heat. Wood-burning fireplaces are relatively inexpensive to install and operate, but they require more maintenance than other types of fireplaces.
Gas fireplaces burn natural gas or propane to create heat. They are more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces and require less maintenance. However, gas fireplaces are more expensive to install and operate.
Electric fireplaces do not burn any fuel to create heat. Instead, they use electricity to heat up a coil or element. Electric fireplaces are the most efficient and easiest to maintain, but they are also the most expensive to install and operate.

2. Size and Location

Once you've decided on the type of fireplace you want, you need to determine the size and location of your new fireplace. The size of your fireplace will depend on the size of your room and the amount of heat you want to generate. The location of your fireplace will depend on the layout of your room and the existing chimney or flue.

3. Installation

Installing a fireplace is a complex process that should be performed by a qualified professional. However, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the installation:

Clear the area around the fireplace.
Remove any furniture or objects that could be damaged during the installation.
Protect the floor and walls with a tarp or drop cloth.

4. Maintenance

Once your fireplace is installed, you will need to perform regular maintenance to keep it in good working condition. The type of maintenance required will depend on the type of fireplace you have.

Wood-burning fireplaces require regular cleaning of the chimney and flue to prevent creosote buildup. You should also have your fireplace inspected by a qualified professional on an annual basis.
Gas fireplaces require less maintenance than wood-burning fireplaces. However, you should still have your fireplace inspected by a qualified professional on an annual basis.
Electric fireplaces require very little maintenance. You should simply clean the fireplace and the surrounding area on a regular basis.

5. Cost

The cost of changing a fireplace will vary depending on the type of fireplace you choose, the size of your fireplace, and the complexity of the installation. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for a new fireplace.