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Five Common Fireplaces Styles
Choosing the right fireplace can be something of a momentous task, particular for newcomers to the challenges of interior design. While common sense is probably your best weapon in the hunt for a good fireplace, there are a few things that need to be considered even before you start. The best way to start is by arranging your priorities for the fireplace. Do you want the one that can pump out the most heat? The one which looks most realistic? The one with the nicest cabinet or the greatest amount of storage space? Different people will have different reasons for wanting to install an electric fireplace. For some, there's a desire to have a fire but a concern about not having a chimney. Others value the increased safety and security that an electric fireplace can provide. Deciding why you want an electric fireplace is the best way to start your search. Once you’ve decided on these factors, the next step is to consider where you want the fireplace to go. Take detailed dimensions and thoroughly check the area you want to install it. Make sure there is an outlet within cable length, and decide how large a cabinet you want to surround the fireplace itself. Check that a fireplace will be safe in the location you plan to put it—although electric fireplaces tend to be safer than most other types there is still a degree of risk. Consider mounting it on a stone or tiled mantel if possible to reduce fire dangers. When you have decided what type of fireplace you want and the approximate dimensions you need, start looking around. Ask friends, check manufacturers’ and specialist fireplace websites, and log on to online forums to see what real users recommend and what experiences they have had. Next, go down to the hardware stores and ask for recommendations. Look for ease of installation, the effect the fireplace has when turned on (if the shop won’t turn it on for you to look at, give them a wide berth). The best way to do this is to visit three different hardware stores, asking for recommendations and seeing if any styles or brands come up more than the others, or tally with what you discovered during your previous research. In short, buying an electric fireplace is just like any other major purchase. Take your time, look around, and don’t fall for the first fancy sales pitch thrown at you. Compare, contrast, and only choose when you are certain that the choice you have made is the one you want, and that best suits your requirements. |