Fireplace Fitter Colliers Wood Greater London (SW19): Re-opening a disused fireplace to put in an open fire, a wood burner or a gas fire is a wonderful way to add a homely feel and some charm to any Colliers Wood home. As long as you have a ready source of wood, adding an open fire or wood burning stove for those freezing winters' evenings could even prove cheaper than a regular central heating system. Combine your fireplace with a back boiler and you'll be able to benefit from constant supplies of hot water to save you even more cash.
However before you begin smashing down the walls of a bricked-up fireplace there are some crucial considerations you must bear in mind to achieve a safe and efficient fireplace. All work must adhere to Part J of the UK Building Regulations, which covers the construction and installation of chimney breasts, hearths, fireplaces and flue linings of any heat producing appliance. If you live in a listed building you will also have to find out if planning permission is necessary from the local authorities before any work is started.
PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION OR DIY?
You may be able to do some of the remodeling work to a pre-existing fireplace if you've got the skills needed, but there is always a problem in finding structural and safety problems that need to be resolved by a professional tradesman. When you expose the old fireplace, you might be lucky and find that in order to get a fire roaring once more, it needs little more than a decent chimney sweep and a quick clean out of the hearth. What is more typical however is a patch of old brickwork that conceals a stopped up flue, and needs some degree of structural reinforcement before it can be safely used.
It's generally best to look to the experience and know-how of a professional fireplace fitter in Colliers Wood, on account of the severe health and fire risk issues associated with an incorrectly fitted or refurbished fireplace. Airflow has to be satisfactory in any room which has a fireplace; and it's a key requirement of the Building Regulations that this is the case. A build-up of poisonous carbon monoxide can result in an area where there's insufficient airflow, and even death is possible where a fire is burning inefficiently.
It might be necessary to fit airflow vents in walls and floors to allow the fireplace to receive adequate oxygen to burn properly and safely all the time. To prevent condensed air becoming trapped in unused chimney flues and creating damp spots and staining, flue vents may have to be fitted by the installation team to increase the airflow.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
Old chimneys are renowned for the quantity of soot and muck that can pile up inside them, thus when you set out to open up a fireplace for renovation you should expect it to be a rather messy enterprise. So that any furniture, rugs and carpets in a room do not get impacted by the dirt and soot that is released during works by a fireplace installer, it's highly recommended that you have them removed in advance. If you are performing a complete renovation of a room or property, the fireplace should be opened up before any decoration or plastering works are tackled. The reasoning behind this is to avoid the chance of any discolouration damage to work which has already been accomplished.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
With your fireplace now open, it's time to determine what is in a fit state to be restored and give the hearth and chimney an intensive clean. You should now contact your chimney sweep, if you've not already done so, to come and look at the old fireplace and chimney. A decent chimney sweep will first of all clean the flue and while doing this can check the structural condition of the chimney and offer you advice on whether a new flue liner is required.
It could be necessary to put in a new flue lining to comply with the current Building Regulations, and construction work may also be required to beef up the existing chimney and breast. A skilled craftsman with experience of the Building Regulations and decent construction techniques will be needed to carry out this type of work.
If the dimensions of the existing fireplace are bigger than your requirements, a concrete lintel will have to be put in. The repair, installation and upgrade of the hearth can proceed once the lintel is in place. The current building regs demand that the fireplace hearth is set above the level of the floor, although in the past it would have been sunk into the floor. You will find that there is a whole host of pre-formed hearths in marble, concrete or granite, however if you have a non-standard sized fireplace you might have to go for a custom-made hearth, which you should ask your fireplace builder in Colliers Wood about.
FIREPLACE STYLE
You will soon discover that you are spoiled for choice in regards to fireplaces, with the huge selection of different choices that are available, when enter a quality fireplace outlet. So you can pick a fireplace that complements your home's decor, and is also suitable for your existing flue and chimney, it is advised that you seek the recommendations of the installers and the sales team.
Whether you opt for an open fireplace, a multi-fuel stove or a wood burner will depend on the look that you're attempting to develop, your current decor and perhaps, the age of your property in Colliers Wood. If you have an attractive inglenook fireplace, a cast iron wood burner can look striking in this surrounding, and has the added benefit of deflecting heat back into the room from the stone or brick walls that surround the stove.
It is still viable to install a wood burning stove, even if there's no chimney structure in your Colliers Wood property. It is possible to take a flue directly from the back or top of the stove and out through an exterior wall, therefore a chimney breast isn't needed.
WOOD, ELECTRIC, MULTI-FUEL, OPEN OR GAS FIREPLACE?
You just cannot beat a roaring fire on a dark winter evening, to create a charm and atmosphere in your Colliers Wood property, but what other options are there?
Electric Fireplaces - Any person who is relatively competent can safely and easily put in one of these fires, and the wide range of models make these the obvious choice for homeowners in Colliers Wood. It can sometimes be difficult to differentiate from the real thing with with the "real" looking feel of some electric fires, and they can readily be inset into traditional fireplaces when needed.
Open Fireplaces - A flickering fire is an eye-catching focal point for any room in your home and it has the ability to burn virtually any solid fuel available on the market. A professionally installed contemporary open fire will be no comparison to the old style smoky fireplace that was perhaps boarded up by previous owners, and its glowing elegance is a welcome addition to any property in Colliers Wood.
Gas Fireplaces - There are a variety of different designs to suit all home types and their efficiency to warm a room is better than wood burning stoves or open fireplaces. A Gas Safe registered technician must maintain and fit any gas fireplace in your home.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Provides you with the option of using gas, coal, oil and wood to furnish you with a versatile heater for any house in Colliers Wood. The AGA range for example is well known as being capable of providing heat for an entire home, a supply of hot water and an oven and hob for cooking all in one useful appliance.
Wood Burning Stoves - These can be freestanding when necessary, and there's a huge selection to complement any kind of property in Colliers Wood. An integrated back boiler is an extra benefit and could provide piping hot water for use around the home, or for heating in other rooms via radiators.
Fireplace installation services can be located in Colliers Wood itself, in these nearby postcodes: SW17 9DN, SW19 2BA, SW19 2DB, CR4 3LQ, SW19 2ET, SW19 2JR, SW19 2JD, SW19 2DD, CR4 3LX, and SW19 2HD, and in adjacent areas like Merton Abbey, Grosvenor Way, Streatham Park, Roehampton, Summerstown, Merton, Eastfields, Lower Morden, Morden. Locally based Colliers Wood fireplace services will probably have the telephone dialling code 020 and the postcode SW19. This information is valuable if you need to verify that you are considering a locally based fireplace builder.
Fireplace Inserts
For those seeking to modernise their conventional fireplaces, fireplace inserts are a frequently chosen solution. By redirecting more heat into the room and minimising heat loss, these inserts are designed to enhance 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.
From electric to gas and wood-burning, fireplace inserts are available in various styles and sizes. Gas fireplace inserts are a low-maintenance and user-friendly option, while electric inserts offer flexibility and convenience with their variable settings and remote control. Ideal for property owners who desire an authentic experience of a crackling fire and the aroma of burning wood are wood-burning inserts.
Besides their efficiency and convenience, fireplace inserts are also considerate of the environment. They decrease the amount of air pollution caused by traditional fireplaces by producing fewer emissions and burning fuel more efficiently.
A professional installation is necessary for a safe and correct installation of a fireplace insert. Fireplace inserts offer numerous benefits, making them an excellent investment for property owners seeking to enhance the comfort, convenience, and value of their property. Fireplace inserts offer a dual benefit of enhancing home comfort and saving householders money on heating bills by directing more heat into the room and reducing heat loss. To determine the most appropriate venting system for their specific fireplace insert, as well as to ensure proper installation and safety, householders should seek professional advice.
Carbon Monoxide Detector Installation Colliers Wood
Effective household safety measures include installing carbon monoxide detectors close to fireplaces. Although they provide warmth and comfort, fireplaces, if not correctly ventilated, can become sources of carbon monoxide. Installed in the same room as the fireplace, a detector can alert occupants to the presence of this deadly, colourless, and odourless gas.
The installation process for carbon monoxide detectors is straightforward but must be done correctly. Effective placement of carbon monoxide detectors involves following the manufacturer's instructions for wall or ceiling mounting, while also maintaining a minimum distance of fifteen feet from any fireplaces to reduce the likelihood of false alarms. It is essential to routinely test the detector and replace the batteries annually to maintain proper functionality.
For ultimate peace of mind, consider professional installation of your carbon monoxide detectors. They'll ensure everything is positioned and working perfectly. This precaution enables property owners in Colliers Wood to significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, protecting their families and improving the safety of their living spaces. For ongoing protection, it is essential to maintain both the detector and the fireplace regularly. (Carbon Monoxide Detector Installation Colliers Wood)
Stone Fireplaces
You could consider bringing the outside in, and build a natural stone fireplace, which is a great way to create a truly spectacular look. It might well be that your property's exterior already has some natural stone features, such as stone boundary walls or a stone facade. You could build a feature on the inside that complements those on the outside.
Either full-depth stone or stone cladding can be used to build a stone fireplace. Your taste and budget could influence your choice. The types of stone that can be used for fireplaces are numerous. Select from quartz, slate, granite, limestone, marble or sandstone.
Precisely how your stone fireplace looks when it's complete will be affected by the style of building (dry stone or mortar built), the individuality of the stonemason or tradesman who builds it and the kind of stone that's used. Have a browse around the internet and find some designs you like, and show these to your fireplace builder before they make a start.
Even though many modern houses may not suit the look of a natural stone fireplace, there are lots of stylish designs which use a combination of metal, wood and stone, which can be particularly striking.
Chimney Repair
Proper chimney repair is essential for the safety and efficiency of fireplaces and heating systems. As time goes by, chimneys can experience wear and deterioration, leading to issues like leaks, blockages or cracks. Timely repairs are a necessity to avert potential threats like exposure to carbon monoxide and fire. These problems can be resolved by chimney repair professionals in Colliers Wood, ensuring the chimney functions optimally and adheres to safety specifications. Extending the chimney's lifespan and reducing the necessity for expensive repairs in the future, regular repairs and inspections afford householders peace of mind and an efficient heating source. (93852 - Chimney Repairs Colliers Wood)
Fireplace Installers Near Colliers Wood
Also find: Summerstown fireplace installers, Merton fireplace installers, Streatham Park fireplace installers, Roehampton fireplace installers, Eastfields fireplace installers, Lower Morden fireplace installers, Merton Abbey fireplace installers, Grosvenor Way fireplace installers, Morden fireplace installers and more. Fireplace installers are ready to serve those living in almost all of these localities. To successfully install fireplaces in your home, these skilled tradespeople possess the necessary knowledge and experience. Residents can experience the ambiance, comfort and warmth that a fireplace brings to their living spaces with the assistance and help of these dedicated experts. By simply clicking here, local homeowners can obtain fireplace installation price quotes.
More Colliers Wood Tradespeople: When your Colliers Wood home needs improvements or refurbishing, many different tradesmen may be required to complete the project, and although your current search is for fireplace fitters in Colliers Wood, you may also need the skills of a stonemason in Colliers Wood, a handyperson in Colliers Wood, roof cleaning in Colliers Wood, a carpenter in Colliers Wood, a plasterer in Colliers Wood, a chimney sweep in Colliers Wood, a plumber in Colliers Wood, a damp proofing specialist in Colliers Wood, a painter and decorator in Colliers Wood, an electrician in Colliers Wood, a blacksmith in Colliers Wood, a roofing contractor in Colliers Wood, floor screeding in Colliers Wood, and possibly other tradesmen.
Colliers Wood Fireplace Related Tasks
Most likely you came here hunting for basic fireplace installation, however your local Colliers Wood fireplace fitter can accomplish a whole medley of additional tasks, and these may include fire grate conversions, flue liner installation in Colliers Wood, outdoor fireplaces, marble fireplace surrounds, fake fireplace installation, classic fireplaces, period fireplaces, chimney repairs, fireplace price quotes, reclaimed fireplaces, modern fireplace installations, hearth fireplaces, fireplace removal, chimney strengthening in Colliers Wood, fireplace fitting, the installation of chimney cowls, the installation of disigner fireplaces, fireplace restoration, limestone fireplace installation, Regency fireplaces, fireplace inserts, contemporary fireplaces, marble fireplace installations in Colliers Wood, cast fireplace installations, gas fireplace installation, open fireplaces, fireplace replacement, cheap fireplace installation in Colliers Wood, hearth-mounted electric fires, fireplace surrounds, and others. This is not in any way an all-embracing list of what is offered by your local fireplace installer. Colliers Wood providers will keep you abreast of their full range of fireplace sevices if you get in touch with them. You can perhaps go to this QUOTE FORM and enter your details, if there are additional Colliers Wood fireplace requirements that you need but do not see here.
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