Adding a Fireplace to Your Home is Easier than You Think
by Guest Post on Feb 3, 2011
Fireplaces are one of the most desirable and consistently requested home amenities because they add a certain charm and comfort to any living space. They also add significant value to your residence, but adding a fireplace is much easier than you may think. And, as winter approaches, this is the perfect time to install your new fireplace so that you can enjoy its benefits during the cooler months.
The key to an affordable fireplace install is choosing the right type of fireplace. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces with chimneys are not only difficult to install, but they are also inefficient (they actually drain the heat from your home.) If you are considering adding on a fireplace, your best bet is a direct venting gas fireplace. These fireplaces are powered by gas and burn so efficiently that they can be vented directly out of an external wall on your house – no chimney required. They frequently come with a convenient timed remote control for superior climate control and safety. Direct venting gas fireplaces will provide the look and warm glow of a traditional fireplace, but are more convenient, efficient, eco-friendly, and less expensive. They are also easy to install.
What you will need to add a fireplace:
* A Direct Venting Gas Fireplace. These come in prefabricated packages with thorough installation instructions. You can find quality fireplaces starting around $450.
* A reciprocating saw. The primary tool you will need is a reciprocating saw to cut a hole in the wall for the external vent. Use a reputable brand like Milwaukee saws. You don’t want to skimp when cutting into the external wall of your home. Before doing this, thoroughly read your specific gas stove’s instructions and make sure you are cutting the hole to spec.
* Construction-grade adhesive and sealant. To attach pieces and fill gaps.
* 2-3 hours. You can install a gas fireplace on your own in around two to three hours. Depending on the style of gas fireplace you select, you may need create a recession, a façade, or add on a mantle. All of these additions will require some additional carpentry and time.
* A licensed plumber to connect the gas line. And the end of this project, you will also need to have a licensed plumber attach the gas line (either propane or natural gas.) Always use a professional, licensed plumber when dealing with gas lines.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
94900 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
74292 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71742 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
52733 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30574 Views
Latest Articles
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginners Guide
By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...
on Dec 19, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Benefits of Using a Convection Microwave
If you have been looking for the cooking quality associated with a conventional oven compacted into the easy size of a microwave oven, then you...
Five Frequently Asked Questions about Residential Roofing
A roof is one of the essential parts of a house. It is also one of the most expensive parts of a house to be maintained or replaced. Homeowners are...
Versatility of Cooktops in Kitchen Design
Built-in cooktops are rapidly gaining popularity in today’s kitchen design. Cooktops may offer more freedom and versatility than other stove types...
Quick Response to Leak Detection and Restoration Saves Your Home
Damage to property by water can be devastating. It can all happen so quickly that protecting personal belongings can be difficult. A faulty pipe or...
5 Weird Products You need for an Amazing Kitchen
These days, kitchens have become just as technologically advanced as anything else in the world. While some people who love to cook are tech-savvy...