Keeping cozy this winter's easier than ever

Fireplaces add warmth, style while boosting energy efficiency
By AMY STUMPFL
For Brentwood Home Page
Cooler temperatures have many homeowners dreaming of curling up next to a cozy fireplace. But along with keeping the cold at bay, a fireplace can add a decidedly warm and relaxing look to any decor, while boosting energy efficiency.

“A fireplace creates a focal point within your room and depending on your style, it can really make a statement,” says Stewart Bronson, of Stone Oak Builders in Brentwood. “We install both wood and gas, and it’s pretty evenly split between the two. Some people really want the charm and nostalgia of wood, while others prefer gas because it’s less mess and easy to operate.”

“In the last year or so, we’ve seen a turn toward more rustic designs,” he adds. “We’re getting a lot of requests for natural stone and reclaimed wood for mantels.”

According to Zach Watson of Embers Grill & Fireplace Store, cast stone mantels offers an easy way to update the look of an existing fireplace.

“Cast stone mantels come in many designs and fit right over the old mantel,” Watson says. “So if you have an old wood mantel with tile surround, you can really change the look of your room. It’s easy to install – we can easily get in and out in one day.

“Stoves are also making a huge comeback,” he adds. “Most people think of the old-fashioned cast iron stoves, but there are some really sophisticated contemporary designs, as well. And they’re very energy efficient.”

Beyond aesthetics, Watson says he is seeing a growing concern for energy efficiency among customers.

“One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is with homeowners wanting to make their existing fireplaces more efficient,” he says. “A traditional open-face fireplace actually pulls heat from the room, but a wood insert is a great way to save money, improve efficiency – and they look great.”

Inserts actually slide into your exiting masonry fireplace and can burn wood, gas or pellets – a small recycled form of sawdust or other organic material. Inserts combine all of the best qualities of the traditional fireplace with the latest in fuel technology.

“The pellets are a great option for those who may not have access to or just don’t want the hassle of storing fire wood,” Watson says. “It’s a green product, and there’s no odor.”

As a popular alternative to gas logs, you can also burn tempered fire glass or beads, which come in a multitude of colors and sizes and create an elegant glow.

Another important trend includes outdoor living areas.

“We do as many outdoor fireplaces and we do indoor,” Bronson says. “People are doing more entertaining at home, they’re spending more time outside, and with a fireplace, they can really enjoy the space almost year round.

“Fire pits are still popular, but we also see full kitchens and really nice living areas. We have a lot of people looking to retrofit their standard screened or covered back porch – and the possibilities are almost endless.”

As with interior fireplaces, options include a wide range of styles, sizes and controls. You can also choose from direct vent (which pulls air from outside the home) and vent-free combustion systems.

“A lot depends on where the fireplace will be installed,” Bronson says. “It makes a big difference whether you’re talking about an interior or exterior wall. And building codes often dictate what type of venting system you need – for example, a fireplace in a bedroom has to be vented. In any case, it’s important to consult with a professional.”

As with any renovation project, safety is paramount to any fireplace installation.

“Whatever type of fireplace you want, it should be installed by a professional according to the manufacturer’s specifications,” he concludes. “We’re often asked about the safety of hanging flat screen televisions over a fireplace, and we always defer to the manufacturer’s specifications. It’s certainly doable, but you need to be sure you’re not voiding the warranty or your homeowner’s insurance.”