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When you’re in the market for a new-build home, you may discover that your options aren’t often equipped with fireplaces. If you’re buying an old property, you may not feel certain that you can safely use the existing fireplace.
In either case, you can install a new fireplace that is updated and ready to use. The question is, do you opt for a standard model or design a custom fireplace?
Today, we’re going to talk about the signs that you should consider a custom fireplace over a standard, pre-fab fireplace. We’ll cover factors like property value, sustainability, bespoke design, and more.
Read on to find out if you should skip traditional fireplaces and go straight for a custom fireplace design.
Increasing Property Value
As we mentioned earlier, new-build residential properties often lack fireplaces. This can lead some homeowners to the conclusion that fireplaces don’t have an impact on property value or that buyers aren’t looking for fireplaces anymore.
The truth is that properties with fireplaces are listed for 13% more than the national median. Though central heating may reduce the inherent need for a fireplace, it doesn’t replace the ambiance and coziness a fireplace can provide. Plus, many homeowners want a fireplace that can supplement the need for central heating throughout the moderately chilly months.
That said, adding a fireplace to a home that has never had one can come with some important considerations. For example, a traditional fireplace may look out of place in a modern home. By installing a custom fireplace, you can ensure that the fireplace is a cohesive addition.
Reducing Renovation Expenses
When you’re considering fireplace installation, it’s important to account for existing structures. If you’re upgrading an old fireplace with a new insert, you’ll have more options, even on a limited budget. Because your home already has a chimney, you can choose a wood-burning fireplace or a natural vent gas fireplace without undergoing major renovations.
Many homeowners believe that without a chimney, they can’t have a fireplace at all. The good news is that there are a few options that don’t need a chimney. These include electric fireplaces and ventless gas fireplaces.
In other words, “custom” doesn’t always mean “more expensive.” Work with your contractor to design a chimney-free fireplace to reduce renovation costs.
Meeting Your City Regulations
You may have noticed the gas debate in recent months. Some homeowners worry about the impact that appliances like gas stoves are having on their indoor air quality.
A properly installed gas fireplace should have minimal impact on your indoor air quality. However, some cities are responding to the concern by banning all new gas appliances, and this would include gas fireplaces. While the bans aren’t wide-reaching at the moment, they may spread in the coming years.
If your city is soon to ban gas appliances, don’t sweat it. When you go custom, it’s easy to design a beautiful electric fireplace that is just as easy to use and pleasant to look at. You’ll still enjoy that extra heat and the flickering flame effect all at the touch of a button.
Reducing Environmental Impact
It’s no secret that homeowners today are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Sustainable appliances aren’t just better for the planet. They’re also better for your utility bills.
There is a common misconception that traditional wood-burning fireplaces are the best option. After all, you’re only burning logs, not using gas or electricity. The reality is that burning wood in a fireplace produces emissions at a high rate, making wood-burning fireplaces one of the worst choices from an environmental standpoint.
Are electric fireplaces the best for the environment? When you choose the right model, they can be. However, custom gas fireplaces are typically the leaders when it comes to low environmental impact.
Taking Control of Design
So far, we’ve talked about many of the practical elements of choosing a custom fireplace rather than a traditional fireplace. Customization can allow you to work within your budget, meet city regulations, reduce your environmental impact, and more. Even if you’re not concerned about these practical elements, a custom fireplace will still give you the most control over design.
Say you want something entirely unique, sleek, and modern. By going custom, you can create something like a suspended fireplace that looks like a work of art even when it’s off. There are also two-sided and three-sided options that allow you to enjoy the glow and warmth of the fire from multiple rooms.
Maybe you want that traditional look without the expense or hassle of building a chimney and installing a wood-burning fireplace. You can design a custom fireplace that has that classic look and feel. You can even make a new fireplace look beautifully aged.
You get to decide if you want a mantle, a hearth, a hearth extension—no matter your vision, there’s a way to make it come to life with a custom fireplace.
Come to Dreifuss for Your Custom Fireplace
There are many types of fireplaces that homeowners can choose from, even if their new-build home is lacking an original fireplace. While traditional fireplaces have their appeal, you may find more to love about a custom fireplace. As you can see, a custom fireplace gives you the control you need to meet your budget, your functional goals, and your creative vision.
Are you ready to learn more about your custom fireplace design options? Contact us today so we can get started on a design and talk pricing and scheduling.
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Manufacturers have focused on improving the efficiency of these inserts, ensuring they provide ample warmth while being environmentally friendly. With sleek finishes, customizable options, and smart technology integration, gas fireplace inserts have become common features in modern homes, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical heating solutions. Overview of the Market Trend The market trend for gas fireplace inserts is shifting towards innovative technology and designs to meet the growing demand for efficient and stylish heating solutions. This is part of the reason why gas fireplace inserts by Regency Fireplaces are taking over the industry. These inserts have gained popularity due to their focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, capturing a significant market share. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to introduce advanced features like remote-controlled operation, smart home integration, and customizable flame settings. 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The controlled heat output and adjustable features of these inserts ensure accurate temperature control, creating a comfortable living space during chilly winter seasons. Efficiency and Convenience Gas fireplace inserts are known for their efficiency and convenience, utilizing advanced technology to offer energy-efficient heating solutions. Their reliable heating performance ensures a comfortable and sustainable indoor environment. These modern heating appliances come with cutting-edge thermostats and programmable settings, giving users precise control over temperature and heating duration. This technological sophistication improves comfort and reduces energy usage, resulting in cost savings and environmental advantages. The remote control features of gas fireplace inserts allow users to adjust heating settings from their couch or bed, making them a modern and efficient heating solution for any home. Design and Aesthetics Gas fireplace inserts are known for their excellent design and aesthetics, providing a stylish and customizable heating solution that enhances home decor and creates a cozy ambiance. These inserts serve both functional heating purposes and elegant additions to modern living spaces. The sleek lines and contemporary finishes of gas fireplace inserts make them versatile pieces that complement a wide range of home decor styles, from minimalist to traditional. With various customization options available, homeowners can personalize these inserts to fit their unique preferences, whether opting for a clean and sleek look or adding intricate details for a more ornate touch. These design features enhance the visual appeal of the fireplace and contribute to the overall atmosphere of warmth and comfort in the room. Comparing Regency Fireplaces to Other Brands When comparing Regency Fireplaces to other brands, it is clear why gas fireplace inserts by Regency Fireplaces are taking over the industry. Regency is recognized as a leading brand known for its innovative features, efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction. These fireplaces provide a cost-effective heating solution while maintaining quality and performance. Regency Fireplaces have distinguished themselves by incorporating modern design elements that enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space and optimize heat output. The brand’s use of advanced technologies ensures improved energy efficiency, addressing consumer concerns about environmental impact. Regency’s emphasis on customer satisfaction is evident in its industry-leading warranty programs and responsive customer support. The brand’s ongoing innovation and commitment to quality establish its position as a prominent player in the fireplace market. 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Is It Worth Keeping A Fireplace?
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They extend the lifespan of the chimney structure. Ensuring proper installation results in a secure fit, facilitating efficient ventilation while also preventing the accumulation of creosote and blockages. Flue A chimney’s flue is a duct or pipe designed to safely guide exhaust gases out of a building. Understanding the purpose and upkeep of the flue is crucial for maintaining an efficient chimney system. The flue plays a vital role in directing smoke, soot, and gases out of the building. It prevents their buildup indoors and ensures adequate ventilation. Different types of flues, such as chimney flue pipes, are utilized based on the specific needs of the chimney system. Properly insulating the flue is essential to prevent heat loss and enhance efficiency. Regular maintenance is key, which includes checking for any obstructions and ensuring a clear pathway for exhaust gases. This upkeep is necessary to ensure the flue operates effectively and safely. Chimney Crown The chimney crown is a protective covering located at the top of the chimney structure. It serves to prevent water damage and safeguard the masonry underneath. Proper maintenance of the chimney crown is essential for the chimney’s durability. Made from either concrete or metal, chimney crowns are designed to extend beyond the edges of the chimney structure. This design diverts water away from the flue and the masonry. Acting as a shield, chimney crowns protect against debris, animals, and other elements that could potentially enter the chimney and lead to blockages or damage. Using crown sealers can enhance the effectiveness of the chimney crown by creating a watertight seal. This adds an extra layer of protection against moisture intrusion. Additionally, chimney flashings, typically crafted from galvanized steel or aluminum, play a crucial role in preventing water from seeping in where the chimney intersects with the roofline. 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