Fireplace Fitter Armagh Northern Ireland (BT60): Installing a new fireplace or restoring a pre-existing one is a great way to add a bit of character and charm to any home in Armagh. If you choose to combine your fireplace with a back boiler, not only can you delight in the warmth and ambience of an open fire during the cold winter evenings, you will also be provided with plenty of boiling hot water.
Before any serious work begins, such as knocking down the walls of a boarded up fireplace or prising away at a bricked-up chimney breast, there are some all-important things you need to contemplate. All work carried out must observe Part J of the UK Building Regulations, which covers the construction and installation of flue linings, chimney breasts, hearths and fireplaces of any heating appliance. Planning permission may also be needed before work begins if your property is in a conservation area or is listed.
PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION OR DIY?
If you are a keen DIY'er it is quite possible to renovate a blocked up fireplace, however the likelihood of experiencing structural problems in the majority of cases is high. You may be lucky and discover that the chimney breast, lintel and hearth are in good shape, once you've uncovered the old fireplace, and the hidden treasure that lies beneath needs nothing more than the services of a chimney sweep. It's a lot more likely however, that you will find a blocked up flue and a swathe of old, crumbling brickwork that will need structural reinforcement to ensure that it's safe.
It's normally best to take comfort from the know-how and experience of a specialist fireplace installer in Armagh, due to the severe health and fire risk problems that can result from an improperly installed or refurbished fireplace. According to Part J of the Building Regulations, a room that has a fireplace installed in it must have sufficient oxygen and airflow to allow the fire to burn safely. If the airflow is not good enough then it's quite possible that a fire will burn inefficiently and cause a build-up of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
To ensure adequate levels of oxygen reach the fire, and to successfully get over any problems with air flow, vents will need to be installed around the room as part of a fireplace installation. Blocked off and unused chimney flues may also need to have air vents fitted since they can sometimes trap moist air and cause damp to develop inside the chimney.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
An enormous amount of soot and other dirt can be discharged from a blocked up chimney upon opening it up for renovation. To ensure that your stuff does not get damaged by the dust, grime and soot that is discharged during the fireplace installation project, removing furniture, rugs and carpets beforehand is strongly recommended. The opening up of a disused fireplace ought to be one of the first tasks that you do, when it's only a part of a more extensive refurbishment project. This will help to avoid damage to other phases of your renovation project (i.e. newly painted walls or fresh plaster), by soot and dirt that is emitted.
STRUCTURAL & CONSTRUCTION WORK
You'll have a far better understanding of the refurbishment work that's required, as soon as the opening up of the old fireplace is completed. You'll also be able to get the chimney swept and clean any remaining hearth. This will be the perfect time to make contact with a professional Armagh chimney sweep to find out whether they can come and check your chimney and fireplace. During the process of cleaning, they will be in a good position to evaluate the structural condition of your flue and chimney, and advise what is required to knock it back into shape.
After an evaluation by a competent Armagh chimney sweep, and in accordance with the UK Building Regulations, work to install a new flue liner and/or strengthen the chimney structure may be required. A competent tradesman who is acquainted with the Building Regs and good construction techniques will be needed to carry out this work.
It's possible that a new concrete lintel will need to be installed, if the existing fireplace is of a size which is bigger than your requirements. When your concrete lintel is in place and secure you can now get on with the upgrade, renovation and installation of the fireplace hearth. In the past the hearth would be sunken into the floor, however current regulations demand that it is raised above floor level. To accomplish this, there are ready to install options in marble, concrete or stone, or you could choose a bespoke, custom-built hearth to fit in with your room style, which your Armagh fireplace builder will be happy to help you with.
STYLES OF FIREPLACE
Checking out a nearby fireplace outlet or browsing on the web will give you an indication of the wide range of different designs and styles of fireplace for you to pick from. Every fireplace may not be appropriate for your existing chimney and flue therefore it's sensible to accept any guidance and advice offered by your fireplace installers regarding your specific situation.
In determining the fireplace design and style that's the best option for your specific circumstances, you will need to look at the age of your property in Armagh, and the style you're aiming to achieve for your room. As an example, an inglenook fireplace can be a perfect backdrop to a traditional cast iron wood burning stove, which highlights its character and reflects the heat into the room.
Even if you do not have an existing chimney breast in your Armagh property, it is still possible to put in a multi-fuel or wood burning stove. Given that a flue can be routed through an outside wall and does not require a chimney breast, it's still quite possible to install and enjoy this kind of fireplace.
MULTI-FUEL, GAS, WOOD, ELECTRIC OR OPEN FIREPLACE?
The ambience and charm of an open fire can't be beaten, but what options are available if this kind of fireplace is not possible within your Armagh home?
Open Fireplaces - Can be used with a variety of different solid fuels, and provides an eye-catching focal point for your living area. In earlier times an open fire may have had the reputation of being smoky, draughty and inefficient, but a well installed contemporary fireplace is wonderful to watch while lounging in the warm glow it provides.
Gas Fireplaces - Gas fires are superior to wood burners when it comes to their thermal efficiency, and there are a wide array of styles and sizes to complement any property in Armagh. Gas fires can only be maintained and installed by a certified Gas Safe registered technician, (formerly CORGI registered).
Wood Burning Stoves - A wide array of different styles to complement any age of property in Armagh, and, if required, can even be freestanding. A version with a back boiler can provide supplementary heating capabilities by connecting the piping hot water to a radiator in a cold spot of your home.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Multi-fuel stoves can be fired up with with a variety of fuels, (gas, wood, oil, coal) to generate an attractive focal point in your home in Armagh. These can be utilised not simply for heating an individual room, but some styles such as the AGA collection, can provide useful cooking areas, supply hot water and can be used for heating the entire property when plumbed into a system of radiators.
Electric Fireplaces - A wide selection of electric fireplaces to complement any house in Armagh, can be easily fitted by any reasonable competent individual. When inset into a traditional fireplace, today's electric fires can mimic an actual fire, with authentic looking flame effects and even the sound of crackling wood.
It isn't just in Armagh where you can obtain fireplace fitters - surrounding places like: Caledon, Richill, Keady, Portadown, Milford, Tynan, Hamiltonsbawn, Tassagh, Benburb, Markethill, Tandragee, Charlemont, Collone, Killylea, Loughall, Middletown, Moy are also covered. Fireplace fitters from Armagh should have the postcode BT60 and the phone code 028 . Verifying this should confirm that you access a local fireplace installer.
Hints To Maintain Your Open Fireplace And Lower Your Heating Bill
With all of the current ecological problems, the open fireplace has lost some of its former charm, but it's still a favourite feature for many people in Armagh. Sitting in front of the comfort of a fireplace, revives many treasured memories for a lot of folks. Having a fireplace has its perks but there are also several drawbacks that could have an impact on its usefulness. As energy costs go up, you'll want to make certain that your fireplace is giving you heat efficiently. When a fire is burning, it might give warmth to those who are standing close to it, but it can in fact pull warm air out of a room, making your heat source work even more. If you don't have a fire, the damper is designed to keep heat in. Often times though, fireplace dampers are generally very inefficient in keeping cold air out, and warm air in.
A great many property owners in Armagh with a fireplace don't know how it can impact the cost of heating. Instead of managing the heating of a house naturally, a fireplace can essentially add 100s of pounds to the cost of your heating. But it is not all hopeless as there are techniques for making your fireplace far more cost-efficient. All you need to do is just 4 simple things to fix your fireplace. You will see that these hints will help make your fireplace produce quality heat and your heating bill lower.
The first step is to take out your current damper and swap it for a new top sealing damper. A top sealing damper is fitted toward the top of your chimney that also behaves the same as a storm door. The top sealing damper helps to keep the air in the house from getting away and works very well in both cold and warm weather conditions. It does not take a lot of time to install and you can order one online. A second thing you're able to do is to place a fire-back at the rear of your fireplace. This is a cast iron plate that's intended to enhance the room design, while saving the back wall from damage due to the fires. The fire-back actually heats up from the open fire and sends the heat back into a room, hence enhancing the fireplace's efficiency.
Another method is to get a fireplace heater/fan, which draws air into the room and warms it up. These heating devices are sealed systems, therefore no smoke is discharged, and they really can make a difference in the temperature of your home. And finally, installing glass doors, although a bit on the expensive side, can be effective in making your open fireplace cost efficient. If you do a bit of groundwork, you can find glass doors at a reasonable price and install them yourself. Glass fireplace doors can keep the air in your property from escaping and also help to protect your family from accidentally falling into the fire.
These suggestions are not very tough to accomplish and you can buy all of the items you need from the internet. Just do your best to make sure your fireplace is efficient and watch your heating bills plummet.
Fireplace Inserts
A favourite among householders in Armagh seeking to improve their traditional fireplaces, are fireplace inserts. Increasing heat output into the room and decreasing heat loss, these inserts are tailored to optimize the efficiency of a fireplace. The mess and inconvenience of conventional wood-burning fireplaces are eliminated with these inserts, offering a safer and more comfortable way to enjoy the enchanting effect of a fire.
Fireplace inserts are offered in an array of designs and sizes, including gas, electric and wood-burning models. Gas fireplace inserts are a low-maintenance and user-friendly option, while electric inserts offer convenience and flexibility with their adjustable settings and remote control. Wood-burning inserts are perfect for householders who yearn for the traditional experience of a crackling fire and the aroma of burning wood.
Along with their convenience and efficiency, fireplace inserts are designed to be environmentally friendly. Conventional fireplace pollution is reduced through the efficient burning of fuel and the production of fewer emissions.
Having a professional installation is crucial to guarantee the correct and safe installation of a fireplace insert. Fireplace inserts are a worthwhile investment for householders looking to enhance the comfort, convenience, and value of their home, offering numerous benefits. A cost-effective way to reduce heating bills while enhancing home comfort is to install fireplace inserts, which direct more heat into the room and reduce heat loss. Note that different methods of venting may be necessary for different kinds of fireplace inserts. It is important for householders to receive professional consultation regarding the best venting option for their specific fireplace insert, as well as for proper installation and safety.
Flue Linings
A chimney or flue liner is a vital part of the chimney set-up on your house, allowing it to function more effectively and improving the overall safety of your chimney. With the purpose of carrying smoke and fumes to the outside of a building, flue liners are conduits manufactured from metal, ceramic material or clay which are fitted to the inside of chimneys. Older chimneys in Armagh may not be fitted with linings at all, or will need to be relined subject to their age and condition.
Whilst a fire is burning, some hazardous gases are the result, and the flue of your chimney can be harmed and worn away by these fumes. You could either ask the chimney sweep to examine it for potential problems and damage whilst your chimney is being swept, or you could ask the fireplace technician to look it over. The dangerous gases that are generated by a burning fire, can potentially seep into your home if a flue is impaired. Extreme heat could also be allowed to penetrate the chimney's structure, generating the possibility of fires.
Natural Stone Fireplaces
You could always think about bringing the outdoors inside, and build a fireplace out of natural stone, which is a great way to achieve a really dramatic look. A boundary wall or stone facade may already be a natural feature of your property's external areas. Your fireplace inside, could complement those natural features outside.
There are 2 ways by which a stone fireplace can be built, and subject to your personal preference and how much money you are happy to spend, you can choose between full-depth stone or the thinner stone cladding option. Also, sandstone, limestone, granite, quartz, slate or marble can be used to build a stone fireplace.
The appearance of your completed fireplace will be affected by the building method, the individuality of the tradesperson or stonemason who builds it and the type of stone used. Do some research before your fireplace builder begins, and show them some images of what you have in mind.
There's no doubt that natural stone fireplaces are typically more suitable for older buildings, and may be somewhat too striking and dominant for a more modern dwelling. But the choice, as they say, is yours.
Brick Fireplaces Armagh
Brick fireplaces have been a standard feature in homes for centuries, and it's hardly surprising. They provide character and a sense of rustic charm that cannot be replicated by any other feature. If you're considering adding a brick fireplace to your home in Armagh, here are a few things you should bear in mind.
Firstly, you'll need to choose the type of fireplace you prefer. Conventional brick fireplaces commonly feature a basic design with a hearth and mantel. However, you can also decide on a more modern design with a sleek finish and clean lines.
When it comes to brick selection, you've got plenty of options. Bricks come in a range of textures and colours, so you can select the ideal brick to complement your property's design. You could even think about mixing and matching different brick styles to create a unique look.
Lastly, consider the functional aspects of a brick fireplace. Make certain that the fireplace is correctly vented and that you've got a functioning chimney. If you plan to use the fireplace for heat, consider installing a fireplace insert or glass doors to increase its efficiency and safety.
In summary, brick fireplaces are a timeless addition to any home. They're versatile, durable, and provide warmth and comfort for many years. If you are considering a fireplace for your home in Armagh, a brick fireplace is a great choice.
Armagh Fireplace Related Tasks
Your local fireplace installer can accomplish a whole range of tasks including carbon monoxide detector installation, wood burning fireplace installations, elm fireplaces Armagh, fireplace packages, fake fireplaces, electric fireplace installation, traditional fireplaces Armagh, chimney lining, reclaimed fireplaces Armagh, marble fireplaces, stone fireplace installations, Victorian fireplaces Armagh, 2-sided fireplaces, Victorian fireplaces, fire grate conversions in Armagh, oak beam fireplaces, fireplace surrounds, chimney modifications, tiled fireplaces Armagh, corner fireplaces, freestanding stoves, chimney repairs in Armagh, fireplace replacement, fireplace removal, marble fireplace surrounds in Armagh, fireplace hearths Armagh, cast iron fireplaces in Armagh, fireplace services, gas fireplaces in Armagh, wood burning fireplaces in Armagh, marble fireplace installation, chimney strengthening in Armagh, fireplace mantels in Armagh, fireplace fitting, designer fireplace installations, and more. Armagh professionals offering these kinds of fireplace services, will supply you with a complete list when requested.
Friends & Family Recommendations
It's always a great help when looking for a professional contractor for your project to ask if friends and relatives have any recommendations. Together with weeding out cowboy fireplace contractors and companies that have a below par service record, personal references are frequently the most effective way to single out someone who's perfect for your needs.
Asking a relative or friend for their advice also means you can get some insights into the punctuality and reliability of the contractor, and if anything went awry, how quick were mistakes rectified and what the contractor's attitude was like. You can get a good idea of how accurate was the initial quote compared to the final price charged. which is normally hard to get from the installers themselves unless they offer a price guarantee.
You can count on your friends and family to be honest and truthful, so they should always be your first point of reference in relation to advice. You may well find that they will be hesitant to talk about them, if they've had a poor experience in their dealings with a specific contractor or fireplace fitter. Many people will be perfectly willing to speak about a good quality contractor, but less likely to discuss a mediocre one, and might even suggest some alternative company rather than 'bad mouth' a far from ideal business they've dealt with previously.
More Help and Advice
If you are curious to read up on ideas for fireplaces head here. Find tips for installing a gas fireplace on YouTube here. To get an outline of how fireplace installation is presently being depicted on social media, check this out. Fireplace Installation advice and guidance is easily accessible from online forums, therefore to take advantage of this you need to pop along to a fireplace installation forum, discussion threads include things like stove vents, understanding building regulations, pellet stoves and boilers, widening fireplaces, log burning stoves and chimney flues. The dedicated Wikipedia "fireplace" page is the place to head for info regarding the environmental effects of fireplaces, gas fireplaces, the history of the fireplace, the types of fireplace, fireplace heating efficiency and the health effects of fireplaces.
Fireplace Installers Near Armagh
Also find: Charlemont fireplace installers, Portadown fireplace installers, Benburb fireplace installers, Middletown fireplace installers, Loughall fireplace installers, Keady fireplace installers, Milford fireplace installers, Tynan fireplace installers, Tandragee fireplace installers, Killylea fireplace installers, Collone fireplace installers, Tassagh fireplace installers, Moy fireplace installers, Markethill fireplace installers, Hamiltonsbawn fireplace installers, Richill fireplace installers, Caledon fireplace installers and more. Fireplace installation services are widely available in most of these places. These skilled tradesmen's experience and knowledge make them well-suited for the correct installation of fireplaces in your property. Residents, with the help of these committed experts, can experience the warmth, atmosphere and comfort a fireplace adds to their homes. Local property owners can obtain fireplace installation price quotes by going here. Why not get started with your fireplace installation right away?
Fireplace Services Armagh
- Electric Fireplace Installation
- Fireplace Mantels
- Cast Iron Fireplace Installation
- Fireplace Fitters
- Wood Burning Stoves
- Victorian Fireplaces
- Open Fireplace Restoration
- Brick Fireplaces
- Fireplace Renovation
- Fireplace Repairs
- Fireplace Installation
- Fireplace Installation Quotations
- Tiled Fireplaces
- Granite Fireplace Installation
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Fireplace installation in BT60 area, telephone code 028 .
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