Fireplaces are a sought-after item among homeowners and homebuyers
alike. They are practical and decorative, bringing warmth and majesty to a
home. The bad news is, if your home doesn't already have a built-in fireplace,
it can be expensive to add one.
Step inside the freestanding fireplace,
which provides all of the warmth and comfort of a built-in fireplace without
the hassle or expense of installation. Would a freestanding fireplace be a nice
addition to your home? Here you have everything you need to know.
Why a freestanding fireplace?
A freestanding or freestanding fireplace is essentially what it
sounds like. It is independent, so it does not have to be integrated into a
house as a traditional fireplace does. This can be appealing to homeowners who
want a fireplace but don't have the funds to build one because freestanding
fireplaces are usually less expensive. and don't require a large project.
If you would like a hearth in your home
and are considering a freestanding one, believe what you would like from your
fireplace. Do you just want something to help heat your home, or do you need
something that adds value as well? Although having a built-in fireplace added
to your home can be an expensive project, it also has the potential to see a
return on that investment if you ever decide to sell your home. However, if
having a fireplace is simply something you want for your enjoyment, a cheaper
freestanding model might be a better option.
Installation
While installation for a freestanding
fireplace is far simpler than one for a built-in fireplace, some installation
is required, counting on the sort you get. If your fireplace or stove needs
ventilation, you will need to install a chimney flue. However, there are
non-vented or even electric models available that do not require a chimney.
You also have more options when choosing
the location of your fireplace if you opt for a freestanding one. This means
that you can optimize the heat output of your fireplace by placing it in a
central place so that the heat can radiate in all directions. If you're looking
to install a fireplace in your home, but don't want to undertake a significant
remodeling project, a freestanding fireplace is likely to best suit your needs.
Choices
You have three basic options when it
involves the kinds of freestanding fireplaces available: wood, gas, and
electric. Of these types, some of them will require ventilation and some will
not.
Wood-burning fireplaces always need a
ventilation system, so if you opt for a wood stove, be sure to factor in the
cost of installing a fireplace pipe. Certain types of gas fireplaces may also
need ventilation. If you do not want to travel through the effort of getting
plumbing installed, you'll consider a non-vented gas fireplace, which does not
get to vent outside. However, there is some debate as to how safe these types
of fireplaces are, so be sure to do your research before purchasing one and
learn how to properly make use of the appliance to avoid putting your family in
danger.
With any type of gas fireplace, you will
have to connect it to a gas line, so be sure to consider the expense of
installing a gas line or adding a new line as part of your total costs.
The lowest maintenance and generally cheapest option is a freestanding electric fireplace
Appearance
This is where a built-in fireplace comes
to the fore. When it comes to the architectural value they bring to a house,
there is no distinction between a traditional built-in fireplace and a
freestanding model. If you are determined to have the traditional fireplace
look or if you are hoping to increase the value of your home, you will likely
have to bite the bullet and incur the price of putting in a recessed fireplace.
However, that doesn't mean you can't get
a beautiful freestanding fireplace to warm your home while complementing your
decor.
Traditional
If you want the ambiance that comes to
mind when you think of a fireplace but is not willing to bear the cost and
installation of a built-in, there are many versions are available that are
designed to look like a traditional stone fireplace. looks for a fraction of
the price.
Practical
Low on storage space? Many freestanding
electric fireplaces accompany attached shelves or cabinets, making them
space-efficient. It's the perfect place to keep all the books you like to
snuggle with by the fire.
Classic
A pretty wood-burning fireplace can add slightly sophistication to
any room. With a ventless gas fireplace, it's easy to achieve that look.
Old School
Whether you like the old-fashioned style
or just want an easy way to warm up your home, a wood stove will provide plenty
of heat and keep you warm when it's cold outside. They are especially useful to
have if you live in an area that frequently loses power, as they do not require
electricity to function.
Worth it?
Whether or not a freestanding fireplace is worth it comes down to
what works best for your needs and budget. While they may be less expensive,
it's important to weigh all your options, as some of the higher quality
freestanding fireplaces can still be quite a large investment. It could be that
you end up getting more for your money by opting for a built-in fireplace when
you factor in the value it adds to your home.
You should also think about what you want
from your fireplace. If you need something that will provide you with a
reliable source of heat, even when the power is out, a wood stove might be the
best option for you. On the other hand, if you want the classic setup of
snuggling up to a beautiful stone fireplace and have the funds to do so, you
may want to consider building one in your home. Ultimately, there is no correct
answer to this question. It's about what works best for you.
What do you prefer? Integrated or
independent? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Hello, My name is John Smith, I am a freelance writer and I would love to build up my writing portfolio online.