Converting Your Old Fireplace

In the past, wood fireplaces are very important during those cold chilly months of winter. With the advent of technology, the gas log fire made it easy for homeowners to enjoy their heat without the back-breaking work of chopping wood. The common fireplace design was a chimney fireplace, where a vent is needed to direct the smoke away from the house. This requires a substantial amount of space and work in installing the chimney and its structure. If you are in the lookout to purchase a home, you may inherit one of these masonry fireplaces. An old fireplace may not appeal to your aesthetic sense especially when there are electric heaters available, which are convenient to use.
 
You may know it but an old fireplace may be the best piece of furniture in your home. Not so many people appreciate the value of a hearth fireplace and would even look for ways to maximize the space it occupies. Some people would transform it into a cabinet or a closet. Some do not even bother to make use of it and would just cover the hole. If you are one of these people, then you are missing out a lot. A fireplace heater is not only efficient but attractive as well. 
 
An old fireplace has a lot of history to tell. With a few embellishments, you can easily convert your mantel fireplace into a beautiful decorative piece. You can put your pictures on it or hang your Christmas stockings during the holidays. Moreover, you can use your log fireplace as the perfect setting for your family gathering or when you are entertaining guests. 
 
You may need to modernize your old fireplace so as to match or complement it with your interior decoration. If you like a modern fireplace, then you may need to cover that vent because you do not need it. Most modern fireplace designs nowadays are usually ventless. The ventless fireplace has many advantages. It is easy to install, use and clean. There is also a variety of designs to choose from that will surely add substance to your interior decorating design. 
 
If you want to cover that vent, you can use a foam spray. Some contractors might say it is not such a good idea but it is safe if you are absolutely sure that the flame will not get close to it. This is easy to remove if you do decide to make use of your vent. Make sure your spray the foam evenly, creating a border inside the walls of the vent. Let the first layer grow before you spray another one inside of the initial layer. You do not really need to spray on the whole chimney and avoid spraying so much in just one time. 
 
After completing this, it is now time to decide on installing a firebox or a fireplace insert. Whatever fireplace you choose, make sure that it is environment-friendly. You can be creative in converting your old fireplace, making it into a glass fireplace to match your modern interiors. The fireplace selection offers you with so much variety, the key is to choose the one you like because you will be spending much time by its warmth.
 

Related Articles

  • A Hearth Adds Substance To Your Fireplace - 26-Mar-2010
    With all the accessories for your fireplace, you may have overlooked beautifying your hearth, which can offer your fireplace setting more character and added visual value.
  • Fireplaces & The Various Kinds of Fuel Sources - 27-Apr-2010
    Over the years, fireplaces have used various kinds of fuel from the traditional wood to the more modern electric or gas fireplaces and even the eco-safe bio-fuel fireplace.
  • Gas Fireplace:Convenient, Warm & Attractive - 14-May-2010
    A gas fireplace is becoming so in demand that you will have many options to choose from, which perfectly combines functionality, look and cost.
  • Enjoying An Outdoor Fireplace - 14-May-2010
    You can enjoy the outdoor air by having an outdoor fireplace to warm you and create a cozy ambiance for those beautiful chilly nights.
  • Accessorizing Your Wood Fireplace - 14-May-2010
    Your wood fireplace will look very appealing as well as easy to use through a log holder, basket or carrier, which conveniently keeps your logs, making them look neat and clean.
  • Ethanol Fireplace: Safe, Environment-Friendly & Efficient - 19-May-2010
    An Ethanol fireplace is increasingly in demand because it is smokeless, odorless, ecologically safe and cost-efficient.
  • A Touch of Elegance With A Marble Fireplace - 09-Jun-2010
    A marble fireplace makes an attractive looking modern fireplace that offers elegance while maintaining its simplicity, offering a wonderful addition to your home decor.
  • The Convenience of Electric Fireplace Heaters - 01-Jul-2010
    For warmth and heating, electric fireplace heaters are very efficient helping you to reduce your cost and not troubling you with stubborn soot or the difficulty of installing to a gas line.
  • A Corner Fireplace For Small Homes - 21-Jul-2010
    A corner fireplace is ideal for small homes, where it can fit just about anywhere and will not clutter your small living space.
  • The Grandeur and Beauty of A Victorian Fireplace - 30-Jul-2010
    Having a Victorian fireplace in your Victorian home is a good investment, adding value to your property and giving your interior decor a decorative focal point for your interiors.