Fireplace Fitter Cambridge Cambridgeshire (CB1): Re-opening a disused fireplace to fit an open fire, a wood burner or a gas fire is an excellent way to add a homely feel and some character to your Cambridge home. Chilly evenings in winter can become a pleasure as you relax beside your new fireplace surrounded by the crackling of a burning fire, and if your fire is used in combination with a back boiler you can also enjoy piping hot water as well.
There are a few essential points to consider if you are to end up with an efficient and safe fireplace, before you start bashing down the walls of a blocked up fireplace. Work that is done on the flue linings, fireplaces, hearths and chimney breasts of any heating appliances, must comply with Part J of the UK's Building Regulations. If you own a listed building you'll also need to ascertain if planning permission is required from the local authorities before any work is started.
DIY OR PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
When renovating an old bricked-up or closed-off fireplace, there's a fair probability of coming across structural issues, thus even if you're a competent do-it-yourselfer you could find this type of work difficult. You might be fortunate when you reveal the old fireplace and discover that you need little more than a good clean out of the hearth and a quick chimney sweep to get a roaring fire once more. It is far more likely however, that you'll find a blocked up flue and an area of crumbling, old brickwork that needs to be structural reinforcement to make it safe.
It's generally advisable to rely on the experience and knowledge of a specialist fireplace installer in Cambridge, because of the severe health and fire risk issues associated with a poorly fitted or renovated fireplace. As mentioned in the Building Regulations for fireplaces, there must be enough airflow in a room where a fireplace is installed, because in order to burn properly and efficiently, a sufficient amount of oxygen is needed. Deadly carbon monoxide fumes can soon accumulate from an inefficiently burning fire in an inadequately ventilated room.
To safely get over any airflow issues, vents may be fitted around the room as part of a fireplace installation, to guarantee suitable oxygen levels reach the fire. To increase the circulation of air inside blocked or unused chimney flues, the fireplace installation team may also have to install some flue vents to stop moist, condensed air being trapped and causing damp spots and stains.
BEFORE WORK BEGINS
A substantial amount of soot and other dust can be released from a blocked up chimney when reopening it for restoration. It's sensible to remove your your furniture and carpets before any fireplace refurbishment work starts, because even with covers and other dust protection for your furniture, the likelihood of impairment from grime and soot is still likely. If you are fortunate enough to be working on a full home renovation project then it should be one of the very first tasks to concentrate on before re-plastering and decorating the walls. This helps prevent any staining damage to any renovated work you may have already done.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
Now that you're able to see the opening of your fireplace it's time to clean and sweep the hearth and chimney and work out what can be repaired. Bringing in a proper Cambridge chimney sweep to de-soot your chimney is one of the very first things on the checklist. After sweeping, they'll offer advice and guidance on what kind of state your flue liner and chimney structure is in, and tell you if there are components that need replacing.
Construction work may be needed to reinforce the original chimney and breast, and it may also be necessary to install a new flue lining. All this renovation work will need to abide by the current Building Regulations which are there for your safety. A reliable fireplace installer and builder in Cambridge will be needed to complete this work, and will have the skills and knowledge of construction to closely follow all building regulations.
When this is complete the next step of your fireplace installation in Cambridge should be to update the existing hearth. The situation with hearths has changed quite a bit over the years, and while in the old days they were typically sunken into the floor, they must now be set at least 12.5mm above floor level if the current Building Regulations are to be followed. To accomplish this, there are pre-formed options made from stone, slate or marble, or maybe you prefer a custom-made, bespoke hearth to match your room style, which your fireplace builder in Cambridge will be happy to help with.
STYLES AND DESIGNS OF FIREPLACE
If you go to a fireplace dealership you're spoilt for choice with the array of different options available to you. You should generally follow the advice of the sales and installation team with regards to which fireplaces will be appropriate for your specific flue, chimney and airflow conditions, as some probably won't be.
In establishing the style and design of fireplace that's the best option for your circumstances, you'll need to consider your property's age, and the theme that you are trying to achieve in your room or space. A wood-burner stove for example, will look splendid when positioned in an inglenook fireplace, which reflects any heat that's produced back into the room and highlights its character and charm.
You've still got possibilities for a feature fireplace by putting in a wood burner, even if your Cambridge home does not have a chimney. Provided that you have an exterior wall through which a stainless steel flue from the stove can be channeled, you do not need a pre-existing chimney structure in place to be able to benefit from that "real" fire experience.
ELECTRIC, OPEN, GAS, MULTI-FUEL OR WOOD FIREPLACE?
If your situation does not allow for the installation of a natural fireplace, what are all the possible options?
Gas Fireplaces - There are a wide range of styles to complement any home in Cambridge, and as they provide immediate heat, they're more heat efficient than wood burning stoves in general. Gas fireplaces must only be fitted and maintained by a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered technician, (previously CORGI registered).
Wood Burning Stoves - Coming in an array of designs that can be a free standing feature when necessary, these popular stoves can be employed in rooms both large and small. These are able to provide hot water for radiators or for use around the house, if used in tandem with a back boiler.
Open Fireplaces - This is the timeless fireplace, creating an interesting focal point for a room or space, and can be used to burn a number of different fuels, such as briquettes, wood, coalite nuts and coal. Today's fireplaces are no longer the draughty, inefficient and smoky features that they were in the past, and an open fire creates a warm, cosy environment for the enjoyment of its occupants.
Electric Fireplaces - A wide selection of electric fireplaces to suit any house in Cambridge, can easily be fitted by any reasonable competent person. An electric fire can be successfully installed in your home, even if you've got a traditional fireplace, and many of them look almost like an authentic fire with crackling sound effects and dancing flames.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Provides you with the option of burning oil, coal, gas and wood to furnish you with a multi-purpose heater for any home in Cambridge. The AGA range is renowned as being able to provide heating for the entire home, a constant hot water supply and a cooker all in one unit.
Chimney Cowls
A chimney cowl is a hood-shaped cap for your chimney that improves draft and helps to stop backflow. It sits on top of the chimney pot to keep the wind from blowing smoke back down, and is usually produced from galvanised iron. A chimney cowl can be bought online or in a builder's merchants. Whether you choose to invest in a new one or make your current one work better, a chimney cowl will keep your fireplace or stove working efficiently.
A chimney cowl can also help to protect your house and keep you safe. There are several kinds of chimney cowl available on the market, each one has been developed to address different situations. Before buying one, consider a few factors to ensure you get one that will help safeguard your property. Once you know precisely what you need, you can then choose a chimney cowl to match your needs and budget.
You can also find chimney cowls made from commonplace products, like a steel bucket or stainless steel colander. Chicken mesh can also be used to make a fairly effective cowl. Clay flower pots also make fantastic chimney cowls. These covers can easily be purchased at a local hardware store or online.
Chimney cowls are a great way to prevent birds building nests in your chimney in Cambridge. They're reasonably priced and simple to install. You should make sure you have easy access to the area above the chimney stack in order to fit one. It can also prevent debris from accumulating inside the chimney.
Tips To Take Care Of Your Open Fireplace And Lower Your Heating Bill
With all the current ecological issues, the fireplace has lost a little of its charm, but it still is a favourite feature for many in Cambridge. There is nothing like feeling the warmth of an open fireplace during a cold winter's evening. Having a fireplace has its perks but there are several drawbacks which could affect its usefulness. Because of power costs going up so swiftly nowadays, your fireplace needs to be a good source of heat, and not an inefficient one. When you have a fire going in the fireplace, it can literally remove warm air out from the room, making your heater work harder. In the event you don't have a fire alight, the damper is supposed to keep heat in. Unfortunately, fireplace dampers can often be inefficient in keeping warm air in the home and cold air out.
Plenty of householders in Cambridge who have fireplaces don't know how it can affect the cost of heating their home. Rather than preserving resources, and heating costs, it is generally adding hundreds of pounds of energy expenditure. However, there are several techniques that you can do that can turn your budget smashing fireplace into something a bit more efficient. Just about all you need to do is basically 4 basic things improve the performance of your fireplace. You will recognize that these hints will help make your fireplace generate quality heat and your heating bill a bit smaller.
The initial step is to take away your existing fireplace damper and replace it with a new top sealing damper. This type of damper is mounted at the top of the chimney, and works like a storm door. The top sealing damper keeps the air in the property from escaping and works effectively in both hot and cold weather conditions. It is not that tricky to install and can be easily bought online. An additional thing you can do is fit a fire-back in the back part of your fireplace. It's manufactured from cast iron and is used to improve the look of your fireplace whilst shielding the back wall from fire damage. The fire-back also soaks up heat right from the fire and channels it back inside, making the fireplace more effective.
The next thing that will help is a fireplace heater, which heats the air that's being circulated through a chamber, and blows it back towards the room. These heating units are sealed systems, so no smoke is released, and they really can make a huge difference to the temperature of your house. And finally, installing glass doors, while a bit on the pricey side, can be effective in making your open fireplace economical to run. Searching around, you will be able to locate a bargain, and with clear instructions, you could possibly fit them on your own. These doors form a screen between the hearth and living space, not only making the area less for the fire to heat, but also affording some protection.
The guidance presented here isn't that tricky to implement, and most of the products can be purchased online. Try your best to make sure your fireplace is efficient and see your heating bill go down.
Fireplace Installers Cambridge
Fireplace installers are professionals who have specific knowledge and skills in the installation and maintenance of fireplaces. Installing and repairing various styles of fireplaces, such as electric, gas and wood-burning fireplaces, is within the capabilities of skilled technicians. These professionals are often employed by fireplace manufacturers or construction companies, but some may also work on their own.
For a fireplace to be installed correctly, there must be meticulous planning, preparation, and execution. To ensure the fireplace installation meets all relevant standards and is safe, fireplace installers must have knowledge of local building codes and regulations. They must also be familiar with the different types of materials and tools needed for the job.
Fireplace installers provide maintenance services as well, ensuring the fireplace is functioning properly. Among the maintenance services provided by fireplace installers are the replacement of damaged parts, chimney cleaning, and inspection for potential safety issues.
Excellent customer service and communication skills are a must for fireplace installers, in addition to their technical prowess. Fireplace installers are essential in the creation of functional and comfortable living spaces. Fireplace installers' mastery and proficiency guarantee homeowners in Cambridge can appreciate the comfort and warmth of a fireplace without worries or concerns.
Chimney Sweep
Irrespective of whether you've got a wood burner or an open fire, it is important to get your chimney swept on a regular basis. Chimney sweeping should generally be carried out at least once every twelve months.
In order to get this job done properly you should always bring in a qualified Cambridge chimney sweep. This not only means that you chimney is kept clean, the chimney sweep will be able to highlight any issues with you chimney.
You could be running the risk of a chimney fire if you neglect to remove the accumulation of soot, ash and creosote by sweeping it. Poisonous carbon monoxide fumes can also be drawn back into your property if you allow your chimney to become poorly maintained.
Make sure you pick a qualified chimney sweep in Cambridge, and check that they're covered by public liability insurance in case of accidents or damages. CLICK HERE to get chimney sweeping quotes for the Cambridge area.
Brick Fireplaces
Brick fireplaces have long been a staple feature in home design. They provide warmth, character and charm to any room. Although traditional brick fireplaces were primarily used for the purpose of heating, they have been reinvented as a statement piece in many contemporary properties. The following are some things to think about if you're considering a brick fireplace for your house in Cambridge.
First and foremost, you'll need to decide on the type of fireplace you prefer. Traditional brick fireplaces commonly feature a simple design with a hearth and mantel. However, you can also opt for a more contemporary design with clean lines and a sleek finish.
Brick fireplaces can be constructed using different types of brick. You can choose from a number of brick textures and colours to match the design of your home. You can also add extra elements such as stone, tile or wood to highlight the brickwork.
In addition to the visual considerations, you'll also want to look at the practical side of a brick fireplace. Good venting is crucial for safety, and you may want to look at adding glass doors or a fireplace insert for improved efficiency. You'll also have to make certain that the bricks are properly installed and the hearth is level to prevent any possible hazards.
To conclude, brick fireplaces are a timeless addition to any home. They're versatile, durable, and provide warmth and comfort for years to come. If you are considering a fireplace for your property in Cambridge, a brick fireplace is an outstanding choice.
Stone Fireplaces Cambridge
As fireplaces go, some property owners like to go for that really spectacular look, and what better way to do that, than by installing a fireplace made from natural stone. It may well be that your property already has some natural exterior features, a stone facade or a boundary wall for instance. Your stone fireplace inside, could match those features outside.
Either stone cladding or full depth stone can be used to build a natural stone fireplace. Your budget and taste might influence your choice. Also, limestone, quartz, sandstone, slate, granite or marble can be used for building a fireplace.
Exactly how your new fireplace looks, will be affected by the methodology used by the stonemason or tradesman who builds it, the style of building (dry stone or mortar jointed) and the sort of stone used. You should get some images prepared of the type of design you're looking for, and before any work commences, you can discuss them with your fireplace company.
Even though some modern day properties might not suit the dominating look of a stone fireplace, there are plenty of contemporary designs which use a mixture of timber, metal and stone, that can be especially eye-catching.
Fireplace Installers Near Cambridge
Also find: Chesterton fireplace installers, Trumpington fireplace installers, Teversham fireplace installers, Cherry Hinton fireplace installers, Milton fireplace installers, Horningsea fireplace installers, Fen Ditton fireplace installers, Grantchester Meadows fireplace installers, Girton fireplace installers, Grantchester fireplace installers and more.
Cambridge Fireplace Related Tasks
The assortment of tasks and services that can be accomplished by your local fireplace installer are wide and varied, and should include stuff like electric fireplaces, fire grate conversions, fireplace packages, fireplace hearths, wood & multifuel stove installation Cambridge, corner fireplaces, stone fireplaces, gas fireplace installations in Cambridge, fireplace installation Cambridge, cast fireplace installations in Cambridge, hearth-mounted electric fires, electric fire suites, wood burning fireplace installation, carbon monoxide detector installation, fireplace repairs Cambridge, brick fireplaces, double-sided stoves, open fireplaces, inglenook fireplace, oak beam fireplaces, classic fireplaces, fireplace cleaning, tiled fireplaces Cambridge, fireplace design, chimney lining, chimney strengthening, Victorian fireplaces, freestanding stoves, designer fireplaces Cambridge, contemprary fireplace installation, wood burning fireplaces Cambridge, chimney modifications, flue liner installation, marble fireplace surrounds, fake fireplaces, and others unlisted. Listed are just a selection of the tasks that are conducted by a local fireplace installer.
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