Fireplaces A to Z - The Ultimate Guide to Fireplaces

A home with a fireplace presents an inviting atmosphere not only to its occupants but as well as to visitors. It’s a cozy place where family members or couples can gather for a sweet night of great conversation and food. The most common perception of people when they think about a fireplace is one made of bricks with fire burning from wood. However, fireplaces have modernized through the years and new materials have emerged to allow the building of more stylish structures.

Fireplaces are classified into different types depending on the materials and fuel used. They can also either be located indoors or outdoors. By materials, the types of fireplaces include the stone, wood, portable fire pits, copper and cast iron.

Outdoor fireplaces are now growing in popularity. Used for both heating and cooking, they come in various shapes and sizes. They may range from the portable fire pits to the built-in stone or stone and wood structures. They also enhance the beauty of a patio or backyard garden.

Stone fireplaces evoke a classic look and are the most durable type with little maintenance needed. They can be made from limestone, sandstone, marble, granite, pure stone or veneer stone. They are best for gas, electric and solid fuels. Whether indoors or outdoors, they make any home space attractive.

A woodburning fireplace can be incorporated with stone in building a fireplace. While the firebox can be made of stone for safety purposes, a custom wood mantel and frame can be a great addition. The types of hardwood fit for fireplaces are oak, maple, cherry, mahogany, cedar and pine.

Cast iron fireplaces are also durable and can last for a long time especially when properly maintained. This type originated long ago during the Victorian period. They can use gas and wood fuels but an electric model is available today as well. Cast iron fireplaces come in black, highlighted, half polish and full polish finishes.

By fuel, the most common types of fireplaces include the wood stove fireplaces, gas and electric fireplaces.

Woodburning fireplaces are best for providing heat and for cooking purposes. Being airtight, they are very efficient in heating a room compared to the traditional fireplace. These are usually movable and utilize a metal container such as cast iron or steel where fire can be built. Regular maintenance is necessary since ashes can build up after all the wood has been burned down.

Gas fireplaces are preferred by many because it’s very convenient. Homeowners have an option to consider a built-in gas fireplace or a free standing one. In installing this type, it’s important that a ventilating system is properly placed so smoke won’t circulate inside the house. Gas fireplaces come in three styles – the direct vent model, the top vent design and the ventless model.

Electric fireplaces are useful in providing heat to a home. They’re commonly known as space heaters. For people prone to allergies, this may be the best option because no burning of fuel takes place. It’s also lightweight, portable and easy to install with only an electrical outlet as a major requirement. Homeowners can also enjoy big savings on this type as no ventilation system needs to be installed.

Our website strives to provide you with the most up-to-date information fireplace pictures, and unique articles on everything to do with fireplaces. We hope you enjoy our site and come back often!