Raleigh NC Fireplaces can be Customized with a
Variety of Options
For instance, gas fireplaces feature three
different kinds of logs: vented logs that
provide a realistic burning wood look with less heat;
vent less logs, which produce a yellow flame with a high
degree of efficiency; and partially vented logs which
provide a middle ground option in warmth, appearance and
efficiency. Other options for Raleigh NC fireplaces can
include a matching tile hearth, a gleaming brass tool
set, etched glass face or even a remote control for
couch potato fire starters.
Three Different Styles of Raleigh NC Gas
Fireplaces
The direct vent model, the top vent
design or the vent-free model. The direct vent gas
fireplace uses two pipes that lead directly to the
outside. One pipe uses combustion air from the outside
while the other vents the exhaust gas.
The top vent design can be installed
into an existing fireplace and uses the metal or brick
chimney as the exhaust vent. The combustion air for top
vent fireplaces is drawn from inside the home. The
vent-free gas fireplace model uses no exhaust vent. This
style includes an oxygen-depletion sensor that turns off
the gas if it senses a dangerous lack of oxygen inside
the house.
Fireplace inserts are heavy,
often weighing more than 400 pounds. Since wood burning
inserts need to be removed when the chimney is being
cleaned and maintained, they can be awkward and heavy to
handle. It is a job best left to a professional chimney
sweep. In some cases, however, you do not have to remove
the insert to clean the chimney. The insert can stay in
place during cleaning if you install a full relining
collar, a stainless steel pipe that connects to the
insert and goes to the top of the chimney. You might
need to purchase accessories such as a blower, glass
door, or catalytic combustor to go with the insert.
New masonry fireplaces have come a long
way since the days when they provided more ambience than
warmth. Today's models are much more energy efficient,
and some European models can heat an entire small home.
The cost varies, depending on factors such as the
type of material used, particularly on the fireplace
face; or hearth (brick, stone, concrete, tile, marble or
wood) or whether it's a pre-fabricated unit, and other
factors such as chimney liners.
