It’s the perfect time to talk about fireplaces. The fireplace has been a significant staple in homes for centuries as it was an essential part of providing warmth and comfort for the home in the colder months. The famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “that fireplaces were the heart and arteries of the house”. Not only did he believe that the fireplace was the psychological center of the home, but he literally placed them in the center of the homes that he designed.
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Many of us get excited when the weather turns and the first crisp fall mornings remind us that the holidays are coming and winter activities are not far away. Choosing the perfect fireplace for your home is not just about adding a heat source, but more importantly it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where memories are created.
Understanding the different types of fireplaces
It is essential to understand the various types of fireplaces available for your home. You not only need to think about the aesthetics, but also the functionality and how the different types align with your lifestyle and living space. Whether you are building, remodeling, or want to update your existing fireplace, our consultants are here to assist you in choosing the perfect option for your home. See our extensive Fireplace Options and Hearth Tips
Traditional Wood Burning Fireplaces
The traditional wood burning fireplace brings the authentic experience to your home with the sounds and smells of burning real wood. The ambiance of a real fire is the perfect backdrop for relaxation and unwinding in the winter months, and many of us associate this as a symbol of comfort, coziness and enjoyable times with loved ones. While wood-burning fireplaces hold a timeless charm, traditional wood burning fireplaces require regular maintenance and a steady supply of seasoned wood.
A traditional fireplace is not the most efficient, and there may be drafts in and out through the chimney which result in higher utility bills throughout the year. One solution to keep drafts at bay would be to install a wood burning insert into an existing wood burning fire box. These are more efficient and can provide heat that radiates into the home. Check out our Wood Burning Fireplaces, stoves and inserts
Gas Log Systems
Gas log fireplaces offer a convenient and stylish way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a traditional fire without the hassle of wood. They come in two main options: vented and vent-free.
Vented Gas Logs
If you are tired of burning wood in your fireplace you can consider a vented log system. As with burning wood, to be safe, you must make sure that your chimney is fully functioning before installing this system. Also, keep in mind that the chimney damper needs to stay completely open to prevent the buildup of combustible byproducts. The Vented Gas Log system provides the aesthetic appeal of a traditional wood fire without the mess and hassle of firewood. There are many options that provide incredibly realistic designs and tall, golden flames. If you desire the maximum amount of heat, ask us about the radiant vented log systems as well!
A direct vent gas fireplace is different from other types of fireplaces since it can be vented through the roof or an exterior wall. Direct vent fireplaces are a type of vented gas fireplace that does not use air from inside the home to operate. It brings in air from the outside through a double vent pipe. The inner chamber of this pipe is used to expel the fumes back to the outside air.
One way to identify a direct vent fireplace is the solid piece of glass that makes it an enclosed unit. The glass is used to seal off the firebox from the interior of the home. This glass is resistant to high heat but can become very hot to the touch, so you will often see a safety or decorative screen installed on the room side of the glass. This type of fireplace allows for greater flexibility for installation of the unit and also is quite efficient to use. There are many sizes and looks to choose from, so if you think that a direct vent is a good choice for your home, let us help you find the best unit for your application.
Vent Free Gas Log Systems
Vent Free Gas Logs don't require a chimney or a venting system. All of the heat that is produced circulates back into your home, rather than escaping through a chimney. For this reason, they are considered a supplemental heating system and are close to 99% efficient. The amount of gas used by vent free units is strictly limited due to safety regulations which will limit the height and size of the flame, but the most recent models look quite realistic. There are pros and cons to the vent free systems, and if you are interested in whether or not to consider this type of gas log, our consultants can assist with your specific needs and concerns!
Electric Fireplace
Yes, electric fireplaces are becoming more popular for a number of reasons! They are an eco-friendly option and actually look really good thanks to the most recent LED technologies. Electric Fireplaces come in a variety of styles, sizes, and designs, so you can find one that matches your taste and installation is easy.
They can be installed almost anywhere without requiring significant changes to your home or permits. You can use an electric fireplace all year long! Since the heat and flame controls on electric fireplaces are independent, you can enjoy the cozy glow of an electric fireplace even during the warmer months! Set the mood for any occasion, in any room, all year long using them with or without heat, to create the ambiance of a gentle rolling fire.
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The fireplace is the heart of your home. If you are building, don't leave this important focal point to be decided on by your builder. Be informed and make your own decision. If you are updating your fireplace, we have options! Let’s talk about your Fireplace! Fireplace Learning Center
To learn more about which fireplace would be best for your home, give us a call today, use our Contact Us form, or find a Viridien Patio + Fireplace store near you. With multiple award winning local showrooms in Charlotte, North Carolina, Raleigh, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina, you have our help at your fingertips.
“I lingered most about the fireplace, as (it is) the most vital part of the house.” Henry David Thoreau
