Nothing adds comfort and warmth to space quite like a fireplace. Whether you enjoy entertaining guests or spending relaxing evenings curled up with a good book, a roaring fireplace can make an excellent addition to your home. When choosing between a wood-burning stove , a gas fireplace, or an outdoor fireplace, it’s important to consider various lifestyle factors.
Safety is of the utmost importance when selecting a fireplace. If you have young children or plan to have children in the near future, consider getting a gas fireplace that fits into the wall and is out of the way. That way, you can minimize the risk of burns. To further enhance safety, you can always install a manufacturer-approved safety screen or other types of physical barrier, then remove it once your children get older.
Entertaining guest is a wonderful excuse to show off your fireplace. If you have a particular space where you like to entertain guests the most, then you’ve found the ideal spot for your fireplace . The living room is the obvious choice, though some homeowners choose to install fireplaces in the bedroom or even in an open kitchen space. If you have a pleasant patio, consider installing an outdoor fireplace there. A firebox that fits into the wall is the ideal choice for smaller rooms, while a larger space can comfortably accommodate a handsome wood stove.
Though many homeowners install a fireplace for the sole sake of improving the ambiance, many others rely on the heat provided by a fireplace. Generally speaking, wood or gas stoves put out more heat than their inset counterparts. Another thing to consider is convenience—would you like to simply flip on a switch to ignite your fireplace, or do you prefer to build the fire yourself? Gas provides the maximum convenience, but many homeowners enjoy the authentic crackle of wood fires.
