Fireplace Fitter Gravesend Kent (DA11): A splendid way to add a touch of character and a homely feel to any dwelling in Gravesend, is to re-open an unused fireplace to put in a multi-fuel, wood burning or open fire. Chilly winters' evenings can become very enjoyable as you sit back in front of your fireplace surrounded by the crackle of firewood, and if your fire is used in combination with a back boiler you can even benefit from steaming hot water to boot.
To achieve an efficient and safe fireplace, there are a few crucial considerations you must keep in mind, before you begin bashing down the walls of a blocked up fireplace. To start with, Part J of the Building Regulations will have to be followed in relation to the installation and construction of any flue linings, chimney breasts, fireplaces and hearths that are an integral part of a combustible appliance in your home in Gravesend. If you reside in a designated conservation area or a listed building you have to check with local council to find out if planning permission is required for installing a fireplace in your house.
PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION OR DIY?
A straightforward remodeling of an existing fireplace can be completed by a skilled do-it-yourselfer, however if any building work is necessary there's the chance of running into structural issues that need to be handled professionally. You may discover that the hearth, lintel and chimney breast are in good shape, once you've pulled back the boarding surrounding your old fireplace, and the hidden gem beneath requires little more than a visit by a chimney sweep. It's much more likely that you will discover a blocked flue and crumbling brickwork that requires structural modifications.
Hiring a specialist fireplace fitter in Gravesend is widely advised, as an incorrectly fitted fireplace can cause respiratory health problems and a severe risk of fire. Making certain that enough oxygen is available in a room for a fire to burn correctly is a key aspect of the Building Regulations for fireplaces. Toxic carbon monoxide fumes can soon build up from an inefficiently burning fire in an inadequately ventilated space.
It might be necessary to fit airflow vents in floors and walls to enable the fireplace to get sufficient oxygen to burn effectively and safely all the time. To increase air movement inside unused chimney flues, the fireplace installation company might have to install flue vents to prevent condensed air getting trapped and producing stains and damp spots.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
Large quantities of soot and dust will enter your home when you're having a disused fireplace opened up. Even with covers and other dust protection for your furniture, the likelihood of impairment from dirt and soot is still possible and it's advisable to remove your furniture and carpets before any fireplace restoration work begins. The opening up of an unused fireplace should be one of the first things to be worked on, when it is part of a more substantial refurbishment project. If other work has previously been completed, this might get ruined by dust and chimney soot.
STRUCTURAL AND CONSTRUCTION WORK
Once you've revealed your old fireplace you'll have a much better understanding of the work that is needed, and also be able to rigorously sweep the chimney and clean up any parts of hearth that may have been left in place. If this hasn't already been done, you should now get in touch with the local Gravesend chimney sweep. During the process of cleaning and sweeping, they will be able to evaluate the structural integrity of your flue liner and chimney, and recommend what's necessary to knock it back into shape.
It may be essential to install a new flue liner to observe the current Building Regulations, and construction work might also be needed to strengthen the existing chimney and chimney breast. These are projects that require a capable builder with a good understanding of the relevant regulations and sound construction skills.
If the dimensions of the existing fireplace are greater than your needs, a concrete lintel will need to be installed. Once this has been completed the next phase of your fireplace installation in Gravesend will be to upgrade the old hearth. The circumstances with hearths has changed somewhat through the years, and while in the olden days hearths were usually sunk into floor voids, they must now be laid at least 12.5mm above the level of the floor if the current Building Regulations are to be followed. You can get custom-made options to fit virtually any size and design of fireplace, or you can select from a variety of popular size and shape hearths to match your decor.
DESIGNS AND STYLES OF FIREPLACE
A quick browse online or a trip to a fireplace showroom will demonstrate the choices that are available for the different styles and types of fireplaces. It is quite possible that owing to your current chimney, flue and airflow to the room, that some fireplace designs may not be appropriate, therefore it pays to follow the the recommendations and advice of the fireplace installation company in this respect.
You property's age, and the theme that you're trying to develop for your room, should all help you determine the type and design of fireplace that's most suitable. If you're fortunate enough to have a house with an inglenook fireplace for example, this can be the perfect setting for a wood-burner stove. This won't just redirect any heat that is produced back into the room, but will also put the focus on the charm and beauty of the stove itself.
Even if you do not have a chimney breast in your Gravesend home, it's still feasible to put in a wood burner. This type of fireplace can be installed with a stainless steel flue that is taken through an external wall and does not require a chimney, to be installed and work safely.
GAS, OPEN, MULTI-FUEL, WOOD OR ELECTRIC FIREPLACE?
Who doesn't enjoy the flickering of a natural fire on a dark winters' evening, but if your situation doesn't allow for this, what alternatives are available?
Electric Fireplaces - Just about any competent person can easily and safely put in one of these electric fires, and the broad range of styles make these a popular choice for homeowners in Gravesend. It can sometimes be hard to tell one from the real thing with with "real feel" electric fires, and they can readily be installed into a regular fireplace when required.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Provides you with options to use gas, oil, coal and wood to furnish you with a multi-purpose stove for any home in Gravesend. If linked up to your radiators or central heating system, some multi-fuel stoves (such as those from AGA) can provide heat for the whole house, in conjunction with hot water, cooking facilities and even outside barbeques.
Wood Burning Stoves - These stoves can be free standing, and there is a huge array available to suit any type of home in Gravesend. If used in tandem with a back boiler these are able to provide hot water to heat radiators or for use around the house.
Open Fireplaces - Provides an attractive focal point for any room and can use a variety of solid fuels. An expertly installed modern open fire will be no comparison to the smoky old fireplace that was bricked up by past owners, and its warm elegance is a welcome addition to any property in Gravesend.
Gas Fireplaces - There are a variety of different styles to suit all home types and their efficiency to warm a room is better than wood burners. Gas fireplaces must only be installed and maintained by a qualified Gas Safe registered technician, (previously CORGI registered).
Fireplace fitters are accessible in Milton, Bean, Cliffe Woods, Green Street Green, Southfleet, Istead Rise, Longfield, Cooling Street, Higham, Singlewell, Ebbsfleet, Riverview Park, Chalk, Shorne, Pinden, New Barn, in these postcodes: DA11 0PN, DA11 0BH, DA11 0LR, DA11 0LW, DA11 0DA, DA11 0HE, DA11 0RZ, DA11 0BY, DA11 0BZ, and DA11 0JH, and in Gravesend itself. A couple of pointers which suggest that a fireplace company operates in Gravesend area is if they've got the postcode DA11 and the telephone dialling code 01474. Gravesend people are spoiled for choice when hunting for fireplace contractors.
Flues
A chimney liner or flu liner is an important part of the chimney system on your home, allowing it to function more effectively than it otherwise would, and improving it's overall safety. Flue liners are conduits manufactured from metal, ceramic material or clay which are fitted to the inside of chimneys to transport fumes outside. An older chimney in Gravesend may not be fitted with a flue liner at all, or will need to be relined depending on it's condition and age.
Dangerous gases are generated by the burning of fires and these can easily damage the flue lining of your chimney. A great time to check for possible problems and damage is while your chimney is being swept and cleaned - so ask your chimney sweep to do this for you. A faulty flue can enable those dangerous gases to leak into your house. There is likewise the risk of fires in the home as an impaired flue liner can enable extreme heat to penetrate the chimney's structure.
Brick Fireplaces Gravesend
Brick fireplaces have for centuries been a favourite in interior design. They provide character, warmth and charm to any space. Even though traditional brick fireplaces were mostly used for the purpose of heating, they have been reinvented as a statement piece in many modern homes. Below are some things to take into account if you're considering a brick fireplace for your house in Gravesend.
First, choose the design of brick fireplace you want. You can opt for a conventional design with a hearth and mantel, or a modern style with a minimalist design and sleek lines. A brick fireplace can be a statement piece, so think carefully about the size and location of your fireplace. A large fireplace can provide an impressive focal point in a room, where a smaller fireplace can provide a welcoming nook.
When it comes to brick selection, you've got lots of options. Bricks come in a range of textures and colours, so you can select the ideal brick to complement the style of your property. You could even think about mixing and matching brick styles to create a unique and distinctive look.
Together with the aesthetic considerations, you'll also want to look at the practical aspects of a brick fireplace. Adequate venting is vital for safety, and you may want to look into adding glass doors or a fireplace insert for increased efficiency. You'll also have to make certain that the hearth is level and that the bricks are properly installed to prevent any potential hazards.
A brick fireplace can be a functional and beautiful feature in your property in Gravesend. With a bit of attention to detail and planning, you can create a fireplace that not only provides warmth but also enriches your home with character and charm.
Fireplace Installers Near Gravesend
Also find: Pinden fireplace installers, Ebbsfleet fireplace installers, New Barn fireplace installers, Cooling Street fireplace installers, Higham fireplace installers, Cliffe Woods fireplace installers, Milton fireplace installers, Longfield fireplace installers, Green Street Green fireplace installers, Istead Rise fireplace installers, Bean fireplace installers, Singlewell fireplace installers, Shorne fireplace installers, Southfleet fireplace installers, Riverview Park fireplace installers, Chalk fireplace installers and more. These and other settlements and towns are catered for by fireplace fitters and related tradespeople. The adept installation of a fireplace in your property is well within the capabilities of these professional tradesmen, given their experience and knowledge. Residents can enjoy the comfort, warmth and ambiance that a fireplace brings to their homes with the assistance of these dedicated specialists. By clicking here, local residents can get fireplace installation price quotes.
Gravesend Fireplace Related Tasks
Things such as chimney cowl installation, the installation of outside fireplaces, chimney modifications, electric fireplaces in Gravesend, the installation of modern fireplaces, fireplace surrounds, chimney lining, fireplace removal in Gravesend, fireplace installation, stone fireplaces, oak beam fireplaces, fireplace hearths, Victorian fireplaces, marble fireplaces, 2-sided fireplaces, fireplace design, Victorian fireplace installations, fireplace prices in Gravesend, fireplace inserts, traditional gas fires, brick fireplace installations in Gravesend, wood burning fireplace installations, marble fireplace surrounds, flue liners, fireplace refurbishment, inglenook fireplaces, fireplace services, inset stoves, outdoor fireplaces, chimney sweeping are just a few of the wide selection of services and tasks that your local Gravesend fireplace fitter can provide.
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