No matter how big a home is, there are usually only a few places that many homeowners enjoy hanging out in. There’s the pool area, patio, a closed-off balcony or any room with a fireplace. Perhaps, fireplaces are the most fun places to chill and cozy up in a home. One thing that many people don’t take for granted in their homes is warmth.
If you think about it, a home hardly feels like one if it isn’t warm and cozy just like the way most people like it to be. Of course, thanks to advancements in technology, there are now electronically controlled heating or HVAC systems that work just fine. However, for several reasons, many homeowners still want an actual fireplace. Click here to learn more about HVAC systems.
This is especially true for luxury homeowners who have their homes custom built. Aside from their obvious function of providing warmth when necessary, they, especially wood-burning ones, add a rustic look to modern homes, improving their character and appeal. This desirable home feature becomes even more desirable in winter. It makes the home so warm and cozy that one could easily forget the chill outside.
If you’re building a home and would like to know your options when it comes to fireplaces, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be going over the types that are available, so, read on to find out which one will best suit your new home.
Wood Burning
This is probably what most people think of when they hear the word fireplace and it’s no surprise since these are the oldest types. They’ve been around for a very long time and are still a favorite for many people. Their rugged, rustic look is highly desirable, and don’t forget that calming crackling sound of their flames.
For many romantics, this option is a no-brainer. A combination of the above-mentioned features creates an atmosphere that’s both romantic and cozy. A classic open-hearth fireplace is made with stone or brick that enhances the heat produced from the burning wood. Sitting close to them, you instantly feel the intense heat.
Here are a few drawbacks: their rough, rugged look may make them look more authentic to most people, but they don’t always effectively heat up the entire room. Proper ventilation is extremely necessary to avoid dangerous flames. Lastly, you may also need one that is enclosed to keep most of the heat in the room rather than going up the chimney. Visit https://www.hgtv.com/how-to/home-improvement/tips-for-maintaining-a-wood-burning-fireplace to learn more about wood-burning fireplace maintenance.
Electric
This is probably the safest and most cost-effective option. It isn’t a “real” fireplace since the flames aren’t actually real, but they do get the heating job done. Compared to other options, they are incredibly easy to install and can be seamlessly installed into any room.
Since they are electronically controlled, you have the option to turn the heat on or off at will and even adjust its intensity. This feature also allows homeowners to enjoy the ambiance without the heat. So, basically, they are functional in both the winter and summer months.
The major drawback with this option, if you consider it a drawback, is that you lose that authentic look and feel. Although some can be customized to look just like a wood-burning option, the fact remains that it isn’t authentic.
Ethanol Burning
This option is the trendiest of all thanks to its contemporary style and ease of installation. Regardless of your budget or space, you can find a design that is just right for you. However, it is worth noting that they won’t create as much heat as the other options. But you can find solace in the fact that they are environmentally friendly, don’t require additional ventilation, and are more energy-efficient.
If you want a fireplace with a contemporary look, this might be the best option for you. What’s great about them is that they can be installed anywhere including on tabletops and walls.
Gas Burning
These are probably the most common in modern houses. They usually have a refined and sophisticated look that elevates a room and makes it more elegant. Their look and feel are certainly different from other options. With propane or natural gas being the fuel source, there’s no need for wood, making it a cleaner option.
While some homeowners enjoy this cleaner option, many find the lack of a wood presence disappointing. Fortunately, the gas log fireplace solves this problem. This option has a stack of ceramic wood that has been made to look like real wood. So, basically, it replicates the ambiance and warmth of a wood-burning fireplace without the mess and maintenance associated with it.
Final Thoughts
To make the right choice of a fireplace, you may want to visit places where they have them on display. This way, you get to experience them firsthand and decide if they’ll be a fit for the space that you intend to have them installed in.
