With winter around the corner, this time of year is the perfect time to consider installing a built-in fireplace in your home. Not only will such an investment increase the overall value of your home, but it will also serve multiple functions and purposes.

Having the budget (and the will) to buy a built-in fireplace is one thing. However, it requires an ample amount of planning to pull off the installation and get the most out of your brand-new fireplace. Today, we talk about the various considerations that must form part of your planning process before you make your purchase.

What Should I Consider Before Buying and Installing a Built-In Fireplace in My Home?

• Room Volume: One of the most determining elements of buying a built-in fireplace is considering the room volume of the room or area in which you want to install the unit. Every fireplace has a designated room volume capacity rating that informs you about the maximum room volume that it can generate heat for. This measurement should be equal to or less than the volume of the room or space in which you want to install your built-in fireplace. Not only will this narrow down your options, but it will also ensure that you can safely operate your fireplace in such a space.
• Construction Costs: If your home does not have a dedicated brick-masoned cavity or chimney, you need to construct such a structure first. This also applies to wall cavities that need some structural reinforcement before it is eligible for your built-in fireplace. You want to avoid any costly construction during installation, which is why you should consider this factor beforehand.

• Fireplace Type: Our selection of built-in fireplaces includes open, closed slow-combustion, and vent-free gas fireplaces to choose from. With a wall cavity and chimney setup, you can safely and efficiently utilise an open or closed slow-combustion unit. If you want a wall insert unit that does not require dedicated ventilation through the roof or a sidewall, a vent-free gas unit is your answer.

• Efficiency and Maintenance: You should always consider the maintenance elements of your built-in fireplace. With woodburning fires, there is soot buildup over time, as well as clearing the ashes afterwards. With a gas fireplace, you should consider the cost of gas canisters and how frequently you need to change them.

Home Fires is your solution to a wide selection of built-in fireplaces for your home in South Africa. Feel free to browse our website if you want more info about our available options. You can also contact us to place a special order or if you have any questions about our fireplaces.