Fireplace Fitter Hedge End Hampshire (SO30): Installing a new fireplace or re-opening a disused fireplace in your Hedge End home is a splendid way to add character and a homely feel to any room. If you choose to combine your new fireplace with a back boiler, you can not only enjoy the warmth and ambience of an open fire during the chilly winter evenings, you'll also be supplied with plentiful steaming hot water.
But before you begin knocking down the walls of a blocked up fireplace there are some crucial things to consider if you are to end up with a safe and efficient fireplace. Any work that's carried out on your chimney breast, fireplace, hearth and flue lining must follow the Building Regulations, Part J for combustible appliances. If you live in a listed building you will also have to ascertain if planning permission is required from the local council before any work is started.
PROFESSIONAL OR DIY FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
A straightforward restoration of a pre-existing fireplace can generally be accomplished by a skilled DIYer, however if any construction work is required there's a chance of encountering structural problems which will need to be handled by a professional. It might be the case that when you remove the boarding surrounding a disused fireplace to discover a hidden gem which requires little more than a good clean and a call to a chimney sweep to get a roaring fire going. Much more likely you will discover a blocked flue and old brickwork that requires structural modifications.
Using a professional fireplace fitter in Hedge End is widely advised, since an improperly fitted fireplace can cause respiratory health conditions and a serious risk of fire. According to the Building Regulations, a room that has a fireplace installed in it must have sufficient oxygen and airflow to allow the fire to burn properly and efficiently. Carbon monoxide fumes (which are dangerous can accumulate in an inadequately ventilated room where a fire that is burning inefficiently is installed.
To successfully get around any problems with air flow, vents may need to be fitted in the room during a fireplace installation, to guarantee suitable levels of oxygen are able to reach the fire. Unused and blocked up chimney flues might also have to have air vents installed since they can trap moist air within them and cause damp to develop inside the chimney.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
It is surprising how much dust and soot can build up inside an old fireplace and chimney and you won't know precisely what is there until you uncover it. It is advisable to remove any furniture, rugs and carpets from a room where you're planning to uncover an old fireplace, to prevent them from being damaged by dirt, soot and dust that might be stirred up during the fireplace installation and chimney cleaning work. If you're installing a fireplace as part of an overall renovation then it should be one of the initial things to be done once you've brought the room back to bare floors and walls. This should help to avoid any harm by dirt and chimney soot to any previously completed work.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
With your fireplace revealed, it is time to see what is in a fit state to be renovated and to give the hearth and chimney a comprehensive cleaning. You now ought to speak to your chimney sweep, if you've not already done so, to come and look at the old chimney and fireplace. They will not only make certain your flue and chimney are clean, but they can additionally take a look at the state of the flue liner and existing chimney and provide advice about whether you need to upgrade any part of the chimney structure and flue.
It could be necessary to install a new flue liner to comply with the all important UK Building Regulations, and work might also be required to beef up the existing chimney and breast. These are tasks that should be done by a competent craftsman with a good understanding of the appropriate regulations and reliable construction skills.
In buildings that are older you may discover the original fireplace is too wide for your purposes, in which case a concrete supporting lintel will be required to modify the opening. When your new lintel is safely in position you may now get on with the repair, updating and installation of the fireplace hearth. You may find your existing hearth has been set into a floor void, but to abide by latest regulations it is required to be raised above floor level. You can find tailor-made solutions to fit virtually any size and style of fireplace, or you can select from a variety of popular size and shape hearths to match your decor.
DESIGNS OF FIREPLACE
Deciding on your choice of fireplace can be challenging when faced with the many styles that are available from a fireplace showroom or online dealer. It is quite possible that owing to your existing chimney, flue and airflow to the room, that certain fireplace designs might not be appropriate, therefore it's advisable to follow the recommendations from the fireplace installation company with respect to this.
Some rooms and properties will look better with an open fireplace than a wood burner or multi fuel stove and vice versa. If you've got an attractive inglenook fireplace, a cast iron wood burning stove can look magnificent set inside it, which also has the benefit of effectively deflecting the heat into the room from the stone or brick walls surrounding the stove.
Even if you don't have a pre-existing chimney in your Hedge End property, it is still entirely possible to put in a multi-fuel stove or a wood burner. A pre-existing chimney is not needed because a stainless steel flue is taken straight from the top or rear of the stove and routed through an outside wall.
OPEN, ELECTRIC, WOOD, GAS OR MULTI-FUEL FIREPLACE?
A flickering fire on a cold, dark evening creates a charm and ambience that cannot be beaten, but what other options are available to put into in your lovely new fireplace in Hedge End?
Electric Fireplaces - Basic installation and a wide choice of styles make electric fireplaces the obvious choice for Hedge End homes that don't have a chimney breast. Contemporary electric fires can deliver authentic looking flame effects and and sometimes even the sound of crackling wood to replicate an open fire when inset into an old fashioned fireplace.
Gas Fireplaces - There are a range of different designs to suit all types of property and their efficiency to warm a room is better than wood burning stoves or open fireplaces. Gas fireplaces can only be installed and maintained by a certified Gas Safe registered technician, (formerly CORGI registered).
Wood Burning Stoves - A wide range of styles to suit any type of property in Hedge End, and can even be a freestanding feature. A version with an integrated back boiler can deliver supplementary heating capabilities by connecting the piping hot water to radiators in cold spots in your home.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Multi-fuel stoves can be used with a variety of fuels, (wood, gas, coal, oil) to create a focal point in your property in Hedge End. The AGA style is renowned as being able to provide heating for an entire home, a constant hot water supply and a hob and oven all in one unit.
Open Fireplaces - A flickering fire is a focus for any room in your home and it has the ability to burn virtually any solid fuel that you can purchase. An open fire is a delight to the eye and contemporary fireplaces are no more the smoky, inefficient and draughty items they were in the past.
Fireplace installation providers are available in Boorley Green, Crowdhill, Bitterne, Burridge, Durley, Curbridge, West End, Moorgreen, Thornhill, Horton Heath, Hightown, in the following postcodes: SO30 2NX, SO30 2NW, SO30 2SW, SO30 0HN, SO30 0PJ, SO30 2AR, SO30 0JQ, SO30 4AF, SO30 0BH, and SO30 2SX, and in Hedge End itself. Local Hedge End fireplace installers will probably have the dialling code 01489 and the postcode SO30. You will need to confirm this if you favour using a locally based fireplace specialist.
Flue Liners
A chimney liner or flu liner is a crucial part of the chimney structure on your property, enabling it to perform a lot more effectively than it would otherwise, and improving it's overall safety. Flue liners are conduits made of metal, clay or ceramic material that are fitted to the inside of chimneys to carry toxic fumes outside. Older chimneys in Hedge End may not be fitted with flue linings at all, or will need to be relined in accordance with their age and condition.
Dangerous gases and fumes can be produced by burning fires and these gases can easily cause damage to the flue of your fireplace. Your flue lining must be regularly assessed for possible problems and damage whenever it's being swept. If it is impaired, those hazardous gases might be able to seep into your home instead of being properly expelled outdoors. There's additionally the danger of fires in the home as a damaged flue liner can permit intense heat to penetrate the chimney's structure.
Hints To Look After Your Open Fireplace And Lower Your Heating Expenses
With all of the current fears about the environment, the open fireplace has lost some of its allure, however it still is a favourite feature for many property owners in Hedge End. There is nothing like feeling the real warmth of a fireplace on a freezing winter evening. The fireplace offers a lot of benefits for your property, but there are some important negative aspects that may need to be monitored. With energy costs increasing dramatically year on year, your fireplace must give out heat in a very cost-effective way. While having a fire alight in a fireplace keeps the people near to it toasty, it can actually suck warm air from other parts of the room, causing your heater to work harder. Anytime there is no fire, a damper is supposed to manage the airflow. However, dampers sometimes have an ineffective seal, so cool air can get in, and warmer air will go out.
Many homeowners that possess a fireplace in their property in Hedge End do not understand how the fireplace can have an effect on their energy bill. Instead of conserving resources, and heating costs, it can often be adding hundreds of pounds of energy expense. There's a simple way to take your less than efficient fireplace, and make it into a heat generating system that will more closely fit your budget. There are 4 simple steps that you can take to change your fireplace into the cost-effective heat sourse you are searching for. These will certainly make your present fireplace far more efficient, and reduce your energy bills.
The first suggestion is to change your existing fireplace damper with a top sealing damper. This type of damper is placed towards the top of your chimney and helps to stop rain from coming in. It does an excellent job of preserving warm air in the home during wintertime and cool air from getting out in the warmer months. This doesn't take a lot of time to install and you can order one online. One more thing you could choose to do is position a fire-back in the back part of your fireplace. It is produced from cast iron and it is used to help the overall look of your fireplace whilst shielding the back wall from fire damage. The fire-back also soaks up heat coming from the fire and radiates it back inside, making your fireplace more efficient.
Another approach is to get a fireplace heater/fan, which draws air into the room and warms it up. These heating devices don't discharge any smoke and should be very successful in keeping your property warm and toasty. Lastly, it is possible to install glass doors which could be the most costly option. If you do some groundwork, you can certainly get a great deal on glass doors and they aren't that hard to install yourself. These glass doors help to stop the heat from getting away and also it keeps pets and young ones from getting burned.
All of these tips are easy to do, and the required products can easily be sourced on the internet. Get the best from your fireplace and watch your energy costs drop.
Chimney Sweep Hedge End
If your house in Hedge End has a wood burning stove or an open fire, it is imperative that you have the chimney swept on a regular basis. At least once each year is the recommendation for chimney sweeping.
The best approach to get this done is to contact a qualified Hedge End chimney sweep, who will complete the work properly and without any mess. While you are getting your chimney cleaned, the chimney sweep will also be on the lookout for any problems or safety issues that there may be with your chimney.
If you don't consistently sweep your chimney in Hedge End, the resulting build-up of soot and ash could easily lead to a chimney fire. A blocked or poorly maintained chimney can also cause carbon monoxide fumes to flow back into your house, a hazardous situation that you want to avoid at all costs.
The importance of employing an experienced chimney sweep in Hedge End, should now be apparent. CLICK HERE to get a chimney sweeps quote in Hedge End.
Log Burner Fireplaces Hedge End
Log burner fireplaces, also called wood-burning stoves, have become a popular choice among householders seeking both visual appeal and effective heating solutions. During the wintertime, these fireplaces create a snug and cosy atmosphere, adding a charming and rustic touch to any property. Not only do log burning stoves have visual appeal, but they are also very efficient, offering substantial warmth with low fuel expenses. This combination of functionality and beauty makes them a desirable addition to many living areas.
However, to enjoy the warmth of a log burner fireplace, thorough planning at the outset is crucial. First of all, it is essential to choose the appropriate model and size to suit the particular needs of your home in Hedge End. You must take into account aspects like room size, ventilation and insulation quality. To ensure the stove is fitted safely and in accordance with local building regulations, a professional installation is strongly recommended. Not only does proper installation assure optimal performance, but it also reduces the dangers of hazards like carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires.
Another vital aspect of owning a log burner fireplace is maintenance. To avoid the accumulation of creosote, a combustible by-product of burning wood, it is crucial to regularly clean both the stove itself and the chimney. It is recommended to have yearly inspections conducted by accredited specialists to guarantee the system remains in optimal condition. Ensuring the longevity and safety of their log burner fireplaces, home and property owners in Hedge End can also savour the cosy ambiance and warmth by complying with these maintenance practices. (Log Burner Fireplaces Hedge End)
Chimney Repair Hedge End
A critical element in preserving the efficiency and safety of fireplaces and heating systems is chimney repair. Issues such as cracks, blockages or leaks may arise in chimneys due to wear and deterioration over time. Timely repairs are essential to prevent potential hazards, including exposure to carbon monoxide and fire. Addressing these issues, chimney repair professionals in Hedge End ensure the chimney operates optimally and meets the appropriate safety regulations. The chimney's lifespan is prolonged, and the requirement for costly future repairs is lessened, offering property owners peace of mind and an efficient heating source through regular inspections and repairs. (21016 - Chimney Repairs Hedge End)
Fireplace Installation Information, Help and Social Media
Nowadays there are some exceptional posts about fireplace installation on the internet, so if you're curious to learn about fireplace mantels click here. To discover what is occurring in the realm of fireplace installation pay a visit to a fireplace installation forum, topics comprise pellet stoves and boilers, understanding building regulations, widening fireplaces, trims for stoves, chimney design and log burners. Watch a simple YouTube guide on how to install and restore a Victorian cast iron fireplace range here. To view fireplace photographs and related social media marketing, check this out. Wikipedia is an excellent place to go to if you'd like to learn more about fireplaces, their dedicated page discusses the health effects of fireplaces, fireplace accessories, how fireplaces affect the environment, the different types of fireplace, the history of the fireplace and fireplace heating efficiency.
Skip Hire Hedge End
When you are undertaking any kind of improvement work on your garden or home in Hedge End, there's almost certain to be a certain amount of waste produced that will have to be taken away. For your fireplace installations, varying amounts of waste will be created, depending on your specific circumstances, and the size of your project. Now some tradesmen will be willing to take this waste away for you, and dispose of it in an environmentally friendly way, whilst others will leave you to dispose of it on your own.
If this task is left for you to do, you could look at hiring a skip. To suit your exact needs, you can choose between a whole range of skip sizes. Mini-skips generally accommodate about 2 cubic yds of rubbish, midi-skips accommodate about 4 cubic yds of rubbish, builders skips accommodate about 6 cubic yds of rubbish and roll-on-roll-off skips accommodate about 20 cubic yds of rubbish. Skip bags normally hold something like 1-1.5 cubic yds of rubbish.
You can GO HERE for the latest skip hire prices in Hedge End.
Hedge End Fireplace Related Tasks
Things such as wood mantels, chimney lining in Hedge End, the installation of modern fireplaces, fireplace surrounds, wood burning fireplaces, fireplace fitting, bespoke fireplaces, fireplaces, fireplace services, period fireplaces, brick fireplaces, marble fireplace installation, fireplace design, marble fireplaces, fireplace packages, fireplace hearths, 3-sided fireplaces, contemporary fireplaces, electric fire baskets, modern fireplace installation, open fireplaces in Hedge End, carbon monoxide detector installation, inset stoves, inglenook fireplace installations, fireplace inserts, fireplace installation, multifuel & wood burning stove installations, double-sided stove installations, reclaimed fireplaces, fireplace removal are just some of the whole medley of services and tasks that your local Hedge End fireplace installer can provide. If there is something fireplace related, which you need but can't see listed here, you could always go to this QUOTE FORM and fill in your details.
Fireplace Installers Near Hedge End
Also find: Hightown fireplace installers, Burridge fireplace installers, Curbridge fireplace installers, Moorgreen fireplace installers, Bitterne fireplace installers, Boorley Green fireplace installers, Horton Heath fireplace installers, Durley fireplace installers, Crowdhill fireplace installers, West End fireplace installers, Thornhill fireplace installers and more. Fireplace installation services are available in most of these villages and towns. To adeptly install fireplaces in your property, these skilled tradespeople have the necessary experience and know-how. These devoted professionals assist residents in achieving the warmth, comfort and atmosphere a fireplace contributes to living spaces. To obtain fireplace installation quotes, local home and property owners can go here. Therefore, there's no reason not to get cracking on your fireplace installation right now!
Fireplaces Hedge End
Fireplace Fitter Near Hedge End
Fireplace Installation Hedge EndFor the latest local Hedge End info go here
Fireplace installation in SO30 area, (dialling code 01489).