Marble Fireplaces

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Even run-of-the-mill fireplaces make home a more pleasant place to return to, and there are many good wood, gas and electric varieties on the market today. However, nothing can compare to the rustic splendor of a marble fireplace. It lends class to a home's living room or bedroom like nothing else.

There are various styles available, many reflecting a certain historic period, including English and French Renaissance, Tudor and contemporary. The arched and baroque styles seem to be amongst the all-time favorites. But basically any fireplace artistically fashioned in marble is an instant attention-grabber that lends character to one's home. The most spectacular are custom-carved by professionals, often out of single blocks of marble.

Installing a marble fireplace requires a firm foundation because of the heaviness of the stones involved. A homeowner will therefore have to consult an architect before proceeding.

Although fireplaces have decorative appeal, there are several drawbacks to installing working fireplaces. In the first place, fireplaces are far from the most efficient and economic ways of keeping a home warm in winter. Secondly, building fires can be hazardous to the clueless. In America, there are approximately 22,500 chimney fires that cause more than 50 fatalities each year. The Chimney Safety Institute of America requires all chimneys and fireplaces in active use to be cleaned by a certified professional.

If you decide to go ahead with using your marble fireplace for actual fire-making, all the precautions for safe use at home apply. A fire extinguisher should be kept handy at all times (never use water to douse an accidental blaze). An appropriate fuel medium should be used, and smoke detectors installed.

It must be remembered that working marble fireplaces require regular cleaning to prevent the marble from staining permanently.

Whether you are looking for a purely decorative or fully functioning marble fireplace, you should be able to find exactly what you want from the wide choice available today.

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Outdoor Fireplaces Can Add Fun To The Backyard

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More and more families are reacquainting themselves with the fun staying and home and entertaining has to offer. Whether this is by personal choice or it's deemed best for finances, the reality of the matter is staying at home and having a little backyard fun can make for some great memories. One of the things that can be added to the landscape to really kick up the entertainment appeal of a home are outdoor fireplaces.

Professionally designed and even homemade outdoor fireplaces can offer a lot of perks for a regular backyard landscape. They can be made to serve a number of different purposes, too. Here are some of the top reasons families consider these fireplace creations:

* Beauty. Outdoor fireplaces can be nothing more than beautiful things to look at. Those who enjoy sitting in their backyards over the indoors often add these to the landscape to create a conversation peace for friends, family, and guests.

* Affordability. It is often simply a lot cheaper to add a backyard fireplace to a home than one that's included on the inside. Since they won't require structural changes to the house, these are great choices for those on a budget that still want to enjoy the beauty of a fireplace.

* Heat. Many geographical locations are just a little too nippy to enjoy the outdoors for too long. Outdoor fireplaces can extend the ability for a family to enjoy dinner on the back porch for a few more weeks going into the winter and even longer. For this alone, many families find backyard fireplaces great choices to add. They are also wonderful options for use at "bonfires" as they tend to be a bit safer.

* Cooking. Outdoor fireplaces that are built correctly can double as cooking devices, too. This means real wood can be used to cook everything from marshmallows to hot dogs, steaks and more. Depending on the size and design, an outdoor fireplace might even work as a brick oven for making outstanding, outdoors pizzas and more, too.

* Entertaining. There's just something comforting about lining up chairs and a table in front of an outdoor fireplace for outdoor entertaining. This is another big reason why many families add these to their backyard landscapes. When included in full backyard kitchen designs, these can be amazing to have around.

Outdoor fireplaces come in two basic types - those that people make themselves and professional installations. Both are more than acceptable to use, but it's important to make sure these fireplaces have proper screens and grates, are designed to contain the fire correctly and offer proper ventilation. It's also a good idea to ensure they are located in a place where any flying embers won't cause a fire hazard and do keep small children away from them when they're in use.

Providing a way to make a backyard truly spectacular, outdoor fireplaces have a lot of practical purposes. Beyond their looks, these devices can be great for cooking, heating and more. Generally more affordable than their indoor counterparts, these designs can be as elaborate or as simplistic as a homeowner might desire.

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Tips on Buying a Fireplace, Electric Fireplaces, and More

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There's absolutely nothing like starting up your fireplace - even those nifty electric ones are pretty neat - on a cold winter day. It makes you want to throw on a blanket, cuddle a warm cup of hot chocolate in one hand, and hold a novel in the other.

Looking for a new fireplace can be hard work. With all the selection out there, from traditional to electric, indoor or outdoor, gel-fuel,stove, fireplace inserts, or wall-mounted fireplaces - where does a consumer even begin?

Read on for an easy step-by-step guide on buying a new fireplace.

The classic fireplace is a good place to start. The traditional fireplace was used as the main heat source for a home during the winter (before modern heating). Many homes still have fireplaces and chimneys that use burning wood to create heat and fire for warmth and enjoyment. The downside to the classic fireplace is that it uses and burns wood, which is wasteful and requires ventilation (via the chimney) to burn. This also means added costs for annual chimney cleaning, and etc.

Electric fireplaces are the most popular alternative to classic ones. The benefit to electric fireplaces is that they still look like and give off heat like a fireplace, but use electricity rather than wood. This means not having to have ventilation and also flexibility in terms of where you install the unit. If you have a classic fireplace, you can opt for an electric fireplace insert to be installed to reap the benefits of an electric fireplace where your traditional fireplace would be.

A popular option for is the corner electric fireplace, especially for small rooms or apartments. Instead of having to take up a large portion of a wall for they are triangular in shape and fit in the corner of a room.
Similarly to the classic fireplace is the country-style stove. If you stepped into a century home, you may see a small square or rectangular-shaped block, which acted as the stove and fireplace for these homes. For a traditional look in your home a fireplace stove is a fun choice and also comes as an electric version.

Gel fireplaces are another alternative to a classic or the electric fireplaces introduced above. Cans of gel-fuel that are made specifically for gel fireplaces can usually burn for up to three hours. The gel-fuel is made of a grain-alcohol that burns off, leaving no ash to clean up or need for ventilation. They are also safe because the burning gel doesn't spark and thus avoids any danger of potential fires.

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Gel Fuel Fireplaces - Be Your Own Interior Decorator

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There are few pieces of furniture that are as versatile in style and function than today's modern gel fuel fireplace. Sometimes referred to as a ventless fireplace, these unique pieces of furniture have been known to serve a variety of needs. First and foremost they are a functioning fireplace. They are portable, clean burning and one of the safest types of fireplaces that produce a real fire with out the mess and bother of traditional gas or wood burning fireplaces. But they can serve far beyond just a simple fireplace. Today you can find models that have an entire bookcase included. Some can even serve as a media center as well a fireplace. There are contemporary fireplaces that will hang on the wall. Think of the decorating possibilities with these options.

As far as style goes, there is not a room décor you could imagine where you couldn't find a style or finish that would be a perfect fit. The choices are almost limitless. Wood finishes run from light to dark featuring Oak, Maple, Mahogany or Walnut. You can have your choice of elegant styles in traditional and contemporary designs.

The various sizes available make the gel fuel fireplace a perfect choice for any room size. Whether you are decorating a large family room, an office, a small sitting room or den or even a bathroom, you'll find a size and style that works perfectly. If you have small rooms to accommodate, the gel fuel fireplace is perfect. Can't find an open wall? Don't worry. How about the room corners? There are gel fuel fireplaces that will fit neatly into tight corners just like a corner cabinet. No longer do you have to go without because you don't have large open wall spaces.

The gel fuel fireplace will add elegance and ambiance to any room. Its clean burning alcohol based fuel poses no heath concerns for you or your family. They are easy to install and virtually maintenance free. The gel fuel cans are easy to both open and place behind the log sets. Burn 2 or 3 cans to give you the size of fire you want. They'll burn for a couple of hours and can be reused until the fuel is used up. It is just as simple as lighting a candle. Many models have a choice of log sets so you can get the one you like best and that creates the kind of atmosphere that's perfect for you special setting.

With all these options available, you are sure to have some fun being your own interior decorator selecting a beautiful fireplace that will add style and elegance to your home. Plan the style, type and size of fireplace that will work the best. Make sure you select a good fireplace manufacturer whose models allow you to actually specify size, type and style options when ordering. You can spend a few hundred dollars or over a thousand on a good fireplace. The choice is yours but a good fireplace doesn't have to break your budget. Shop around.

The complements will keep on coming when your friends see your new addition. It will truly be a piece of fine furniture that will last you for years. And the best part is, you will have had fun selecting that perfect addition for your home.

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Corner Fireplaces - What Are the Benefits of Corner Fireplaces?

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Corner fireplaces are unique because they are able to fit into a corner in your home and still have all the parts of a regular fireplace. There are little differences between a corner fireplace and a traditional fireplace except where they can fit in your home. That is why they have become known as corner fireplaces in the fireplace industry. They are great if your home does not have a lot of room or wall space. They come in all types and colors so you have a lot to choose from. There are types for any home no matter what your decor or color scheme is.

They can be altered so that they actually fit in diagonally on the wall in a home. The standard corner fireplaces are one choice but you also will find designs that are glass on two sides, an Island Fireplace, which has glass on all sides, and a Peninsula Fireplace that is all glass except for one side and the sides are not all equal. The Bay Fireplace is a lot like the Peninsula fireplace because they both are glass on three sides. They don't have glass that is the same length, though. The Peninsula Fireplace is a type with the glass being longer on two of the sides. With the Bay Fireplace, the two sides are not as long. Corner Gel Fireplaces are a type that are easy to move from one room to another. That way you can enjoy them all over your home.

You can get electric corner fireplaces that just require an outlet to work. The electric corner fireplace is a great way to create a comfortable and warm feeling in your room and can provide a good amount of heat as well. They are great but they cannot be your only source of heat in the home because they will not work if the power were to go out as what sometimes happens in the winter.

They are unique but also similar to regular fireplaces which is why they are so popular. You can enjoy a cozy fire to curl up in front of but you don't have to clean up ashes or worry about smoke. All fireplaces, including corner fireplaces, are a great addition to any room in your home and make a great area to sit and relax with your loved ones at the end of the day or to curl up with a good book. They are going to continue to grow in popularity.

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Fireplaces and Wood Burning Stoves - Practical Tips For Successful Smoke-Free Fires

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An open fire or wood burning stove can make an attractive central feature to your home. Many designs are available in both classic and contemporary styles, suiting homes both old and new. However, many people overlook the importance of using the correct type of fuel and good fire building practices. If you have an open fire or wood stove, the following advice will help you build efficient smoke-free fires every time.

The best fuel for a real fire is hard wood which has been allowed to dry. Kiln-dried logs make excellent fuel, as does split hard wood which has dried out over a couple of years. Splitting a log lets the air get to the wood, enabling it to dry out. Avoid using whole logs, as these will contain moisture and will burn less efficiently whilst producing large amounts of smoke.

Only hard wood should be burnt. Soft wood, such as pine, contains a large quantity of resin and will only burn for a short period. If your fire has glass doors, soft wood will also blacken the glass extremely quickly, as well as blocking the chimney.

Avoid buying bags of firewood from supermarkets, smaller shops and garages. These logs usually haven't been properly dried and seasoned, and so will result in a room full of smoke. They can often contain a mixture of hard and soft wood too, which will produce a fire which quickly burns out.

Beware of using scrap wood that you may have laying around, as this can be unsafe. Whilst it may be tempting to burn wood from old fence panels and broken-down pieces of skirting-board, remember that these will have been treated with acidic chemicals. Not only will this cause a great deal of smoke, they will also damage the metal of the chimney and fire.

To obtain the best level of efficiency from your fire, simply follow these steps;

Use only hard wood as fuel. Hard wood includes Elm, Apple, Ash, Oak and Silver Birch
Do not use soft wood, or wood which has been treated with chemicals
Ensure the wood you burn is well-seasoned and has been split
Use clean newspaper and dry kindling or firelighters to start the fire
If using a wood stove, refuel sufficiently on the mound of charcoal on the base of the fire
When it is safe to do so, remove the ashes from the stove into a metal container which has a cover. You can then either store this outside or even spread the ashes on the garden.

One last issue to take into account is that the efficiency of your fire will depend on its type. Open fires are not very effective at heating rooms; They can burn through around six logs each night and achieve at best around 20% efficiency. A closed wood burning stove on the other hand can produce a great deal more heat, with efficiency rates of around 80-95%.

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Fireplaces - Tips On How To Stay Warm And Safe Around The Fire

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While the weather outside may be cold and snowy, the need to keep warm on the inside becomes the number one priority and this is when many people look to their fireplace for help.

Unfortunately, in many cases this need meets with death and injuries from its use. It's not just fireplaces that are dangerous, but also many other supplemental heating sources such as portable space heaters and kerosene heaters.

Every year in the United States there are an average of 140 deaths and over 25,000 fires caused by wood burning fireplaces, chimneys and space heaters. Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires, with cooking fires being number one.

fireplace can start home fires in many different ways. It can be from a cracked chimney, or one that is blocked off. Sparks and burning embers can create fires on the inside of the home as well as the roof.

To stay safe during the cold winter weather follow these fireplace tips:

Always have your chimney inspected each year to be sure it's not blocked or coated with creosote. Also do a visual inspection to check for any possible cracks.


Never empty hot ashes into the trash can. Put them in a fire resistant container and store it away from anything that may burn.


Don't use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire in your fireplace.


Always make sure the fireplace damper is open before starting a fire. Not only does it allow the smoke to escape, but dangerous gases as well.


Have a fireplace screen in place to avoid sparks and hot embers from popping out.

By using these fireplace tips, you'll not only stay warm during the freezing temperatures, but you'll also stay safe.

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Fireplaces For the Home - Energy Efficient Heating

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The fireplaces of today are not like our forefathers of even 20 years ago. Modern fireplace design has in recent years taken a huge leap forward to incorporate aesthetics and world class design that provide home owners and interior designers with a new home centerpiece.

The elements of the fireplace are still there, but the designs are rapidly changing to incorporate style, a sense of presence, and focal point that is not just a warm spot in the room but one that attracts the eye.

Take for example an Italian design named the Antrax Bubble. Either suspended from the ceiling or mounted on a wall, this fireplace has been designed to not only catch the eye but also to fit in tight spaces.

Other great designs and that have recently come on the market are corner fireplaces. Never before has the use of space been so wisely used in our opinion. Where dead space in a wall was customary in room design, it is now being put to use by incorporating a gas fed fireplace. There are several designs on the market and can be retrofitted to your house. All you need is a nice cozy corner and a good fireplace installation company.

Economy of size seems to be the focus of fireplaces being designed today. There are a huge range of new fireplaces coming onto the market that not only incorporate good design features but are functional, low aspect heat sources for just about any room.

Take for example a wall mounted model. Designed to be flush with the wall and burn either wood or gas, it is simple, elegant and can provide more entertainment on a Saturday night than TV. Originally these designs started to emerge in Europe but have since become very popular in the US and other parts of the world. One of the great features of these types of fireplaces is that even if a fire isn't burning, it still looks good. It's the type of fireplace that attracts attention when you want it to and blends into the surroundings when you don't have it on. A top choice in our opinion.

Don't forget that fireplaces originated for an outdoor source of heat before making their way indoors. Recently there has been an interest and upsurge in the design, manufacture and purchases of Outdoor Fireplaces. Although you might think of an outdoor fireplace as a circle of rocks and something you do when you go camping, outdoor fireplaces today are much cooler.

Either gas, wood or a combination, the coolest outdoor fireplace designs incorporate and embrace mobility. Not only is this a good thing from a storage point of view but also from a usability angle as well. In our opinion, everyone should have one of these.

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Wall Mount Electric Fireplaces Guide

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You've come to the right place if you're looking to find out more information about wall mount electric fireplaces. Our handy guide gives you a good overview of the choices available to you, as well as how you can get a better deal on any purchase that you make.

Until relatively recently, it's seemed that electric fires haven't been particularly fashionable. Why has this been the case? There are a number of factors that have combined here, including the impression that heating a home with electricity was not particularly economical. Then there was the image problem - electric fires often looked rather old fashioned, hardly creating any real appeal when placed in a room.

Things have changed and wall mounted electric fireplaces have been central to changing attitudes. One of the elements that has contributed to this has been the feeling that they look really good in a room. It may once have been the case that electric appliances were unsightly, but it's become increasingly clear to consumers that newer models have the ability to really add style to a room. That last point is especially important.

We are very much talking here about the fact that home owners have increasingly turned to wall mounted fires in order to provide a feature for a single room. While they may not compare with the lower costs associated with alternatives, that matters much less when they are not being used in every room of the home. They also offer ease of installation. This is vital to many. Since there are so many flueless models around, it means that many buyers have realised that they don't even need a chimney in order to have one fitted.

So what should you look out for when you come to buy? Price is likely to be important to you when you come to make a decision - you'll want a high quality product but undoubtedly will also want to save money where possible.

Online stores can be a great help in this respect. They tend to have lower overheads than traditional fireplace showrooms, with those lower costs being passed on to customers in the form of competitive prices. Take advantage of the situation to secure a real bargain. Make sure that you fully understand the chosen specifications of the product before you buy and you won't go far wrong.

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Dangers Brought About By Carbon Monoxide and Fireplaces

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Carbon monoxide and fireplaces are a dangerous combination. Carbon monoxide is a type of gas that kills almost 300 people in their homes each year. Carbon monoxide is given off by burning any fuel. Therefore, any fuel-burning appliance in the home is a possible CO source. When appliances are kept in good working form, they produce little CO. Appliances that aren't operating properly can produce deadly CO concentrations in your home. CO poisoning can also be caused by using charcoal grill inside the house or when a car is left running in the garage. Sources of carbon monoxide include room heaters, furnace, charcoal grill, range, water heater, auto in closed garage, and fireplaces. Precautionary measures must be taken to avoid the deadly duo that's carbon monoxide and fireplaces that are inadequately maintained.

fireplace safety tips include the following:

· Fuel-burning furnaces, appliances, or fireplaces should have at least one CO detector that's ideally situated, such as in a hallway or sleeping area.

· The fireplace damper must be opened before lighting the fire. It should be kept open until the ashes have cooled. The damper must not be closed if the ashes are still warm. The build-up of poisonous gases inside the home can be avoided if the damper is left open. When carbon monoxide

· Gasoline, charcoal lighter or other fuel should not be used to light or relight a fire since the vapors can explode. Flammable materials must never be kept near a fire. And, flammable liquids must never be stored in the home. Charcoal must never be used in a fireplace because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

· A chimney that is blocked or clogged due to leaves or soot can cause combustion byproducts, including CO, to be expelled into the home. Cracked masonry could also cause an obstruction. Regular inspection and cleaning using a chimney sweep can help helps prevent or remove blockages. The chimney could also be fitted with a screen cap to dissuade nest-building.

· A common source of carbon monoxide include wood-burning and gas powered fireplaces. To make sure there is fresh air, the window should be left open a few inches. Treated woods, painted wood, and scrap lumber should not be burned in a wood burning fireplace. Only seasoned firewood must be burned.

· The chimney dampers must also be opened before using fireplaces. Opening it can produce a draft that goes up the chimney. This will provide the fire air to burn efficiently at the same time providing ventilation of smoke and carbon monoxide.

· Gas logs or burners emit a lot of CO since the less-efficient, yellow flames are desired for a cozy atmosphere. Those who own ventless fireplaces must be extra careful since these appliance expel all combustion byproducts into the room. While the fireplace is run, the combustion process is fueled by the oxygen taken from the room. When there is less oxygen, the combustion becomes less efficient, giving off more CO.

· Regular inspection and maintenance of the flue, burner, and chimney should significantly lessen any CO troubles affecting the furnace.

· A qualified technician must be hired to examine chimneys and fuel-burning appliances. This is to ensure that these devices are functioning properly. The technician should also check that there is no blockage that's preventing the harmful fumes from being vented out of the house.

These are just some measures that people can take to guarantee a safety home. It's a better alternative to spend a few dollars on proper maintenance of the home than to suffer the consequences of neglect.

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Electric Fireplaces - The Popular Option For Portable Heat For Many People

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Electric fireplaces are an item that is becoming more and more popular with today's homeowner's. The main advantages of electric fireplaces are generally portability, convenience, and low initial cost is important. They are also a good choice if the looks are not as important as function.

Electric fireplaces are generally cheaper than gas fireplaces. A good unit can be bought for about $500 (there are cheaper models available, but they tend to have fewer options and the flames are not as real looking). These fireplace units are fairly easy to install compared to a gas fireplaces or wood-burning stoves (both of which usually need flues to vent). If you can plug in an electric cord then this type of fireplace may be for you. The electric units are perfect for apartment buildings and condominiums. These places are not suitable for the traditional wood fireplace.

Some electric fireplaces have simulated flames that give the look of traditional fireplaces. Another great option to include is a built-in fan to help distribute the heat more effectively. With some of these high end units it can be very hard to tell the difference between an electric fireplace and a wood burning stove. Along with this option may come a heatless setting the will give the look of flames but produce no heat. The remote control has also found its way to the fireplace market. There are many units that can be remotely controlled.

You will see how an electric fireplace can transform any setting for you. The newest modern, advanced electric units have far more aesthetically appealing views. They might include fiber optic displays, or randomized lights designed to make the look of dancing flames.

Just like other types of portable electric heaters, electric fireplaces will radiate heat very quickly extreme care must be taken to not have any combustibles too close to them.

Now whether you're living in a condo or apartment and can't have a real fireplace, the electric fireplace is a great way to get some of the warmth and ambiance. Also remember that these units are portable, so you can take them with you when it's time to move. Even though I have never been that big on electric fireplaces, because of the expense of their operation, I can see why they would be very popular with many apartment or condos owners.

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Why Chimineas Make Great Outdoor Fireplaces

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If you've just begun your research on outdoor fireplaces you may not yet know what a chiminea is. A chiminea is a free-standing outdoor fireplace, but unlike a raised fire pit it is generally enclosed. Although you can find some that have a 360 degree view of the fire most of them are enclosed with a door on one side where you load the wood and start the fire. Since they are free-standing you can move them if you need, whether you move to a new home or just redecorate your outdoor area.

Chiminea Basics
Traditional chimineas have a long slender neck and a bulbous body. The neck is designed to provide greater airflow so you have a more efficient and cleaner burning fire, it also helps to direct the smoke into the air instead of into the faces of those sitting around it. The body holds the fire and for the traditional models with an enclosed body it contains the fire so you don't have popping wood or sparks jumping out. You also don't have the problem of a gust of wind blowing embers into the grass, bushes or any other potentially dangerous area. The enclosed design also makes it easier to start the fire.

Types Of Chimineas
There are two basic types of chimineas, metal and clay. Clay chimineas were the first ones that were developed. They provide a great Southwestern feel and many of them have decorative designs or colors to add a little more character. They provide a good amount of heat and they are an attractive style but unfortunately they don't last as long. Clay is prone to chip or crack so they aren't the most durable choice.

Metal chimineas are usually made out of cast iron or cast aluminum. These are much more durable than the clay version especially when you buy a good quality one. If you buy a quality one and follow maintenance guidelines you should have it for a very long time. Metal chimineas may require repainting in places every few years so they don't rust, but if you do this it should really last you. These types also have decorative designs and they come in different tones so it's easy to find one that fits the feel of your outdoor area.

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Major Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Fireplaces

Today, there could be hardly anybody who is unaware of fireplaces. Although fireplaces were discovered hundreds of years ago, still they are proving to be great utility and elegance items, even in the modern times. One of the major reasons behind this is fireplaces have molded themselves according to time and they never remained rigid. At present, various types of modern fireplaces like gas, electric, wall-hanging, ventless, and portable fireplaces are in use. It doesn't mean that the traditional fireplaces have become extinct, they are also manufactured because they are still demanded by many. Anyway, the contemporary fireplaces or warming equipment can be divided into two major heads according to their area of operation. They are indoor and outdoor fireplaces.

As the name suggests, indoor fireplaces are the warming equipment which are usually installed in the living room, dining room, bedroom, or any other enclosed space within a house or a building. They are, in fact, one of the most demanded types of fireplaces.

The outdoor fireplaces are those which are installed in open spaces, usually in a garden or near the patio. They are meant for outdoor warming purposes and are generally used at the time of dusk. These warming equipment also witness a good demand.

You must have got an idea about the nature of the indoor and outdoor fireplaces by now. So, let's discuss some interesting and major differences between the two:

Outdoor fireplaces are generally less expensive then the indoor ones.
There is no need of a damper in an outdoor fireplace because there is no issue of heat loss while an indoor fireplace usually possesses it.
Outdoor fireplaces are comparatively larger in size and have a voluminous firebox in comparison to their indoor counterparts.
Outdoor fireplaces are usually equipped with chimney caps to prevent spreading of sparks on windy days. This is not necessarily true in the case of indoor warming equipment.
The design choices are much more in case of indoor fireplaces than the outdoor ones. The reason is that not all materials and designs are suitable for outside application, hence comparatively less variety in outdoor warming equipment.
Indoor fireplaces include log burning, gas, and electric fireplaces while the outdoor ones are mostly the log burning type. The outdoor gas fireplaces are also available nowadays, but outdoor electric fireplaces are hard to find, as they are not considered feasible for outdoor use.
While fabricating the outdoor warming equipment, special heed is given to its durability and robustness. This is because they are meant to work outside, thus they should be durable enough to withstand climatic exposure. On the other hand, in case of indoor fireplaces, more focus is on elegance than durability.
The use of precious metals like silver, gold, and platinum is also made sometimes in making indoor fireplaces owing to the expectation from these units to complement the interior decor. On the contrary, the outdoor units are basically utilitarian and no such embellishment is present in them.

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Stone Remains a Popular Material For Modern Fireplaces

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Modern fireplaces not just about heating the house, they are also about interior design. They are still functional and economical, but their aesthetic value has increased so much so that they can often be classified as art pieces. There are far more styles to choose from than there ever were before, and anyone, can find the perfect gas fireplace for any home, be it large or small, urban or rural, and regardless of their particular sense of taste. In the past stone fireplace surrounds were more for protecting the house from the flames and storing ambient heat, even if they were beautifully crafted, but the most contemporary fireplaces can provide heat while also contributing to any interior design schematic. So much so, in fact, that they are often the primary fixtures in a room, and set a certain tone for the interior design schematic altogether.

Despite the availability of other materials, stone is still a popular material to build contemporary fireplaces out of. The procedure for producing one of these modish modern stone fireplaces generally involves four stages: design, construction, delivery and installation.

In designing contemporary fireplaces, the project commences with a basic design concept. Then a simple measured image is drawn up, which then is transformed into a life-size representation that permits a more detailed look at the moldings and the carving details so that more minute dimensions can be determined. After all of this information is ascertained, the details are sent to a stone mill, and the materials are ordered (10-ton blocks are commonly ordered as a starter piece, but each project will require something different). At this point a three dimensional representation of the drawing will be created. Some artists describe this process, which is the most time consuming part of the creation of modern fireplaces, as "finding" the sculpture inside the stone block. The drawings are transferred to the stone to the exact measurements, with specific adjustments made according to needs.

Then the images are shaped, and all the details are eventually carved out of the stone with specialized chisels, hammers and other tools. Then the pieces are shipped and delivered to wherever the fireplace is to be installed.

In the end the fireplace is installed by a stone mason, who will connect the carved piece or pieces directly to the wall with specialized galvanized wall ties. The shaped stone pieces are usually connected together with bronze pins, the gaps filled in with mortar, and finally sealed with grout material. The whole process can take many days to complete, but the result is a magnificent custom modern fireplace with a distinctive style.

Contemporary fireplaces have increased in popularity because they double as functional industrial design-oriented heaters and interior design-oriented décor. They house real living flames that can be fueled by wood, gas, or other fuels. They are great sources of heat and enjoyment, and generally raise the value of the home by at least as much as they cost. They can be viewed either as functional art pieces or artistically-designed appliances, and are the ultimate marriage of the utilitarian and the aesthetic.

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Different Types of Fireplaces and the Materials Used in Them

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A fireplace is an opening, made at the base of the chimney, for holding fire. It is an architectural structure created in homes, and has been in use since many years. Nowadays, their popularity has decreased due to the use of central heating and cooling systems in homes. Still, they are a popular option for those who wish to give their homes an elegant look.

A fireplace is the central point in a home. Whether it is in a room or a lounge, it becomes the focal point of attraction in the area. It is very comforting to sit around a fireplace and listen to the sound of the fire and enjoy the heat.

There are two main types of fireplaces. One is the original fireplace which is used for real fires. It can really change the outlook of the room and give it a cozy and elegant feel. Although it is a good option, it requires a lot of maintenance and regular cleaning to keep it looking good. Another alternative is electronic fireplace which is easier to maintain.

There are a variety of materials which can be used for building fireplaces. the most common materials in use are brick or stone; such fireplaces are known as Masonry fireplaces. These types are usually unreinforced and cannot withstand earthquakes. Another type is concrete fireplaces. Although these types are reinforced, they have some internal design flaws which can cause cracks to appear, after some time.

Another type is the manufactured fireplace which has a metal firebox inside a frame. This type of firebox can be fitted inside any frame made of wood or concrete. This makes the installation process much easier, and is also less expensive than other options.

A new innovation in this regard is the bio-ethanol fireplaces. They are fuel less firs and do not require any ventilation. These kinds of fireplaces are very efficient as all the heat is transmitted into the room. These are also very easy to maintain as there is no residue or soot.

There are many ways in which you can design your fireplace so as to catch the attention of those who enter the room. The main part of the fireplace is the hearth, and this is what determines its look. There are many styles and materials that you can choose, depending on the décor of the room. The firebox and opening of the fireplace are also important design considerations.

Nowadays, there are various modern fireplace designs to choose from which can give your home a fresh and new look. Even remote control and portable fireplaces are now available in the market. Moreover, fireplaces can now be fitted anywhere in your room as they are integrated into different objects such as tables, book cases or glass cases. Outdoor fireplaces are also an option and they can enhance the beauty of your garden or backyard. No matter what design you choose, it is important to ensure that it complements the rest of the décor well, while still being the focal point.

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Is Cast Iron a Good Material For Outdoor Fireplaces?

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There are some definite disadvantages to cast iron for outdoor fireplaces. Iron is heavy, it rusts, and it will stain just about any surface it touches when it rusts. But when it comes to outdoor fireplaces, these disadvantages may not really be a big problem.

If you buy a fireplace, one of the last things you want is for it to rust through and fall apart. Iron is well know for being very susceptible to rust, especially when exposed to weather and fire. The rust can be stopped or slowed by coating the metal with heat resistant paint, but that usually is not really necessary. When iron is cast, it is usually cast into thick pieces. The surface of the iron will no doubt rust, but it can take a very long time for the rust to make it all the way through the thick iron. Until that happens, you can get many years or decades of enjoyment out of your fireplace.

So maybe the rust is not going to make the fireplace fall apart any time soon, but rust will stain your patio or deck. This may be a problem with a concrete patio but as far as your deck, that is the least of your problems. A deck is really no place for a wood burning fireplace. Since decks are usually made of wood, and wood burning fireplaces burn wood, it is not a good idea to put the fireplace on a wood deck to begin with. When a cast iron fireplace is put on the ground, where they belong, rust stains should not be a problem.

Cast iron is usually quite heavy. This can be a disadvantage if you want a portable fireplace. But if you want to leave it in one spot, being heavy will help it stay there.

Although cast iron may have some disadvantages over other metals for outdoor fireplaces, these disadvantages often do not really matter that much and the low cost and durability of cast iron can make it a good choice for fireplaces.

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Electric Fireplaces - A New Fireplace Technology For Your Home

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fireplaces are an important piece of any home. Not only they are for providing heat during the winter months, they are also in fact striking pieces of architecture. Even when in use during non-winter months, fireplaces will never be out of function. They can very well serve as the main highlight of our living room due to their natural magnificence and everlasting appeal.

Traditional fireplaces have always been the most popular type of fireplaces across the country. Due to its natural and unparalleled appeal, it is the kind of fireplace most homeowners prefer to have for their home. The sight and smell of burning wood that comes from traditional fireplaces is a thing of beauty and remains unmatched by any other kind of fireplace.Though traditional fireplaces are very attractive and very popular; they always come with a lot hassles when used.

Despite being a remarkable piece of architecture for our living room, traditional fireplaces presents many problems for homeowners. These fireplaces rely on the continuous supply of firewood in order to keep them burning and in order for them to supply appropriate heat. What makes them troublesome to use for many homeowners especially those living in the city is that getting adequate firewood is not no an easy task. Making firewood is a hard and punishing chore especially for most of use who are already tired from our work. Getting firewood from our nearest store is not cost-effective and in fact expensive especially when the demand is high and the supply is short.

The great news is that homeowners can now address the problem of getting sufficient firewood in order to keep their fireplace running without having to worry about getting short of firewood. Electric fireplaces are a great replacement to traditional fireplaces which is run entirely with firewood as fuel. This new technology in fireplaces offers homeowners with a more economical way of managing their fireplaces without having to worry about getting enough firewood or running out of it.

Electric fireplaces are well-admired by a lot of modern homeowners due to their being operational, economical, being maintenance-free and a more affordable price tag. These fireplaces despite being products of modern and sophisticated technology are very convenient and easy to use. In addition, electric fireplaces just need to be plugged in an electric outlet and can continuously provide warmth even for long hours. The temperature can also be remotely-controlled and be set at a preferred level, a feature that is not present in traditional fireplaces.

Homeowners will not have any issues with the visual appeal of these fireplaces. An electric fireplace mantel will not fail in comparison and almost has the identical look to that of traditional fireplaces. Homeowners can effectively choose from a wide variety of electric fireplace mantel and stone fireplace surrounds available. These fireplace accessories are sold in a wide array of designs, styles and sizes that can suit varying homeowners' preference and home requirements.

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Fireplaces and Log Racks

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Imagine a chilly winter day sitting with piping hot cup of coffee and taking delightful sips while enjoying the warmth of a newly installed fireplace. fireplaces and winter go hand in hand and are particularly popular in the West. For centuries, people have used fireplaces to warm their houses during the colder months, and the tradition of using fireplaces for both heating and other purposes continues until today. For those in keeping with this tradition, log racks are great things to have.

Fireplaces need a good supply of dry wood, and wood must be stocked to keep the fire burning. Stacking the wood without good support can be a little risky as improper storage can result into the wood tumbling all over the living room. A fireplace log rack is the answer to this problem and has other benefits. These racks keep the logs dry and clean, and it even is a part of the fireplace decor. The racks are perfectly designed to store logs in a proper way and keep them ready to use whenever needed.

Purchasing a the right rack

Keep in mind that there are two basic types of log racks: indoor and outdoor.

Outdoor log racks can keep wood dry even during wet seasons. They do this in a couple of ways. First, by keeping the logs stored above the ground; there is less chance of the moisture seeping into the wood. Combined with a cover, they make all the difference in the world in keeping the wood dry. Secondly, with the wood stacked nice and neat, airflow is greatly enhanced and cut wood has a chance to dry properly. For those who store wood for a long period of time, an outdoor log holder is a must.

An indoor log holder keeps the logs stacked nice and neat in the house and ready for instant use. Some of them are combined with wood carriers that allow the wood to be easily brought into the house and set directly onto the rack without having to unload each log. Others have wheels to allow for more easy transport.

Apart from their practical functions, they come in various designs and can do a lot to enhance the look of any living room. While outdoor racks can hold more than a cord of wood, indoor racks are just designed to hold a ready supply for any day one decides to have a fire.

These log racks can go a long way in enhancing any fireplace and making the experience of sitting around the fire that much more enjoyable.

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Natural Stone Fireplaces - Discover the Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural Stone For Fireplaces

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Natural stone fireplaces are extremely popular among many home owners. If you are looking to add beauty to your home, without the use of heavy types of stones and materials, natural stone is a wonderful choice. This particular type of rock is also referred to as "thinstone". This is a type of veneer that is cut to ensure quality, yet is extremely lightweight. Many fireplaces have been created using this particular type of material. This is mainly due to the fact that the stone is highly versatile when it comes to color and texture and that it can hold up to a large amount of various conditions as it is so durable. Here, you will be introduced to this building material, as well as some advantages and disadvantages associated with using it.

Advantages of Natural Stone

Many advantages have been associated with stone that is natural. One of the first advantages is that is it suitable to any budget. Being that it is cut relatively thin, this makes an affordable choice for those that have a specific budget outlined for their home improvement and home repair endeavors. The next advantage is that it is lightweight, so it is quite easy to install the pieces with little to no effort. As mentioned previously, there are many different colors and textures available when it comes to selecting thinstone for the home. This product gives the overall appearance of real stone, yet the flexibility of manufactured stone. This is why many homeowners elect to use this for their home improvement projects.

Disadvantages of Natural Stone

When researching any type of building material for the home, it is always a good idea to ensure that you not only research the advantages of using the product, but the disadvantages as well. There are a few points that may be identified as a disadvantage to using natural stone in and around the home. These are as follows:

1. This is a natural manufactured stone. Many individuals prefer to stay away from stone types that are created. If you are looking for a product that is created from rocks obtained naturally, this may not be an ideal choice for you.

2. There is a possibility that the product may experience chipping and scratching. While this is basically a disadvantage, there is a positive side. If chipping or scratching occurs, the stone is created in such a manner that the under surface is the same as the outer surface. This means that it will blend in appropriately.

3. Individuals who use this type of stone may feel that it is not as durable as stones obtained naturally. However, it does have a high tolerance for extreme conditions.

Where to Find Other Natural Stone fireplace Ideas

If you want to find more natural stone fireplace ideas, there are many different places where you can do so. The internet is loaded with unique designs and ideas for the home. Furthermore, home improvement stores such as Lowe's and Home Depot often carry a large assortment of books on the subject. If you want to get started on integrating a fireplace into your home, a natural stone fireplace may be the best choice for you!

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Gas Fireplaces Review

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Gas fireplaces can be used in almost any form of household, even for people who live in trailers. The reason why they are so appealing is because they are almost like a television. You can get to enjoy the warmth of a fire by the touch of a button on a remote control. The much needed effort required to cut up wood and start the fire using newspaper becomes a memory.

Long ago, people would form a bond while sitting by the fire by telling stories, talking about the day's activities, and plan what to do the next day. In this day and time, this is almost impossible because of how busy everyone seems to be. No one has the time to sit by the fire and share their day to day activities.

The gas fireplaces come in a wide range that one can choose from. It is possible to desire something that best suits your house. They have additional attributes that improve their appearance. These attributes include choosing the temperature you desire and that suits you. You also have a choice of using those that don't use electricity but instead are lighted using a match. This means that it is possible to use them even when there is no electricity.

If the owner has knowledge whatsoever about putting up gas fireplaces, then they can try. The best advice however is to hire someone that is qualified to do it. That way, they can offer advise on how to maintain it and they can also diagnosis a problem, should there be one.

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