If you’re one of many homeowners who would love to enjoy the crackle of a wood fire in the hearth but you don’t have a fireplace or even a chimney, this blog post is for you. You don’t have to have an existing chimney structure or fireplace in order to install a factory built fireplace. Today I’m going to briefly describe factory built fireplaces and explain the safety and maintenance techniques used with them. So if this type of fireplace sounds like it’s up your alley, keep reading!
Zero Clearance: The minimal safe distance from combustibles for installation makes it feasible to install a factory built fireplace virtually anywhere. This is achieved due to the insulating air blanket which keeps the outer wall cooler than other types of fireboxes. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely because all units are slightly different.
Building Permit Required: Yes, a building permit is required to install a factory built fireplace. Building codes are in place to protect your home, your family, and your insurance company. If you’re not sure if you can swing the installation process on your own and up to code, feel free to call me.
Long Life: A factory built fireplace has a lifespan of up to 30 years. That’s pretty impressive for the type of unit it is. All of the required components come with the fireplace itself. You’ll receive the firebox as well as the entire chimney system. You may also vent it through an existing chimney and flue if one exists.
Beautiful: These fireplaces are available to match nearly any type of decor. With the multitude of designs available, you’re sure to find one to match or complement your home’s existing decor with style and grace.
Factory Built Fireplace Safety Tips
These units have a very high safety record, as they are put through a series of tests during the building process. Here are some dos and don’ts that will help keep your household safe during the operation of the unit:
Do not use flammable liquids to start the fire. Never put gasoline, lighter fluid or any other flammable liquid into the fireplace.
Open the damper before lighting the fire so that you have proper air flow from the very beginning.
Do not put too much wood into the fireplace at once.
Do not burn an excessive amount of paper in the fireplace.
Close the screen during normal operation to prevent a harmful situation for your home, children, or pets.
Maintenance for Your Factory Built Fireplace
NFPA and CSIA, the two leading fireplace and chimney safety agencies in the nation, recommend that your fireplace and chimney be inspected at least once per year. You should always have it inspected before the first fire of the season to ensure that there are no blockages in the chimney and no damage to the heating system as a whole. Call me any time to schedule an appointment at 610-626-2439.