The best thing about a fireplace is once you have it installed, you can enjoy it for years. But you need to choose the right model to fit your needs. If you’re considering a fireplace for your home, make sure you don’t make the common mistakes below.
Having It Installed By An Amateur
Whatever fireplace and mantel you purchase, everything can go wrong if you don’t install it correctly. Installing a fireplace requires a professional with skill and training. You’re probably going to have problems with your new fireplace if you have a handyman do it for you.
You can usually get a professional to install your fireplace at the store you made your purchase. However, if they don’t handle installations, ask for a recommendation in the area.
Choosing The Wrong Fireplace
All fireplaces are made for specific reasons, so you should purchase the correct fireplace for your needs.
For example, a traditional wood-burning fireplace has a beautiful aroma and ambiance; who doesn’t remember the beauty of a real fire in the fireplace when they were growing up?
However, a wood-burning fireplace doesn’t produce as much heat because much of it goes up the chimney. That’s why it’s best to choose a wood stove with a closed combustion chamber if you want as much heat as possible.
Buying Without An Preview
Buying a fireplace usually involves thousands of dollars between the fireplace, mantel, and installation. Shouldn’t you be sure that it will fit your home before you install it?
That’s why it’s a smart idea to work with a fireplace company that installs the products themselves; they may offer an in-home preview so you can see how it looks and feels in your home before you make a decision.
Saving Money On Installation
You’re installing a fireplace in the home, so your safety is most important. Before you pay someone to install it, there are some questions you should ask the contractor:
- Will you pull a permit before you install the fireplace?
- Will you take pictures of the installation process to ensure it’s up to code?
- Will the images be checked by a manager?
- What will the contractor do if they don’t have the right part? This is why it can be beneficial to have the company that made the fireplace do the installation.
- Will the contractor honor the factory warranty?
Replacing An Old Fireplace Incorrectly
New fireplaces have specific installation requirements and venting needs for them to operate effectively and safely. So when you’re putting in a fireplace in place of an old one, you need to verify the chimney or venting system will work for the new one.
That’s why it’s so important to have a qualified professional install your fireplace. They’ll be familiar with existing fireplaces and how to install them safely, regardless of what you have now.
Not Checking Local Regulations
Did you know there is a national code that generally outlines how fireplaces should be installed? In addition, there are local regulations that your installer should follow. All of these regulations are in place to ensure the fireplace is installed safely.
Also, remember there are differences between state and local codes. For example, vent-free fireplaces are allowed in Texas but not in Austin and Houston. Now that you know some of the common mistakes people.
