Fireplace Fitter Norwich Norfolk (NR1): A marvelous way to add a bit of charm to any Norwich property is by installing a brand new fireplace, or renovating an existing one. The addition of a multi-fuel stove or open fire for those chilly winter evenings can even prove to be more economical than some central heating systems, so long as you have a good source of wood or fuel. If combined with a back boiler it can supply you with plentiful hot water at the same time.
But before you begin smashing down the walls of a blocked up fireplace there are some essential things to consider if you are to end up with an efficient and safe fireplace. Any combustible appliance installed within the home must conform to Part J of the UK's buildings regs, and this covers flue linings, chimney breasts, hearths and fireplaces. Planning permission may also be needed before work commences if your home is in a conservation area or is a listed building.
DIY OR PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
If you are a competent and keen DIY'er it might be possible to renovate an existing blocked or bricked-up fireplace, however the chance of experiencing structural issues in many cases is high. You might be fortunate when uncovering your old fireplace and find you need little more than a thorough clean up of the hearth and a quick chimney sweep in order to get a fire roaring once more. It is far more likely however, that you will reveal a blocked up flue and a swathe of crumbling, old brickwork that will need to be reinforced structurally to ensure that it's safe.
It is generally better to look to the experience and knowledge of a certified fireplace installer in Norwich, on account of the severe fire and health risks that can be caused by an improperly installed or refurbished fireplace. For a fire to burn safely in a space with a fireplace, there must be ample airflow to guarantee an adequate amount of oxygen. Toxic carbon monoxide fumes can accumulate from an inefficiently burning fire in an inadequately ventilated room.
To enable the fireplace to receive ample oxygen to burn efficiently and safely all the time, it might be a requirement for a specialist fireplace installation company to fit airflow vents in walls and floors. To improve air movement within unused or blocked chimney flues, the fireplace installation technician may have to install vents to stop moist, condensed air becoming trapped and producing damp areas and staining.
BEFORE WORK STARTS
A large amount of soot and dirt can be discharged from a bricked up chimney upon reopening it for restoration. A fireplace installer will bring dust sheets for your furniture and supply a bit of protection, but it is sensible where feasible to remove furniture and carpets from the room before any work begins. If you're installing a fireplace as part of an overall renovation project then it should be one of the initial things to be done once you have got the room back to its bare walls and floors. The reason for this is to prevent any staining damage to remodelling work that has previously been finished.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
With your fireplace now open, it's time to find out what can be restored and to give the hearth and chimney a comprehensive cleaning. Contacting a proper chimney sweep to clean your chimney will be one of the first things on your to-do-list. They'll be able to offer expert guidance on the chimney and flue after sweeping, regarding the condition of the structure of the chimney and if you need to switch the existing liner.
All the relevant UK Building Regulations should be complied with, if it is necessary to strengthen the chimney or install a flue lining. A reliable fireplace installer in Norwich will be required to carry out this work, and should have the skills and knowledge of construction to closely follow all regulations.
It is possible that a new concrete lintel will need to be installed, if the dimensions of the original fireplace is bigger than your requirements. Once you have supported your fireplace with a lintel it is now necessary to update or repair the hearth. You may find the original hearth has been sunken into the floor, however to conform to latest Building Regulations for the UK it is required to be raised at least 12.5mm above floor level. Ready-made solutions from concrete, marble or granite are available to accomplish this, or your fireplace builder in Norwich should be able to offer you a bespoke, made to measure hearth to match the style of your room.
DESIGNS AND STYLES OF FIREPLACE
Due to the host of different fireplace styles, choosing the right one won't always be easy. You can see what's currently on the market by visiting your nearest fireplace showroom or by going on the internet. The advice and suggestions from your fireplace installers, which will be specific to your requirements, will enable you to choose a fireplace that is both perfect for your existing chimney and flue, and suited to your decor.
A wood burning or multi-fuel stove might be suitable for some rooms and dwellings in Norwich, whilst an open fireplace will be more appropriate for others. If you've got an old-fashioned inglenook fireplace, a cast iron wood burner can look striking set inside it, and also has the benefit of reflecting the heat back into the room from the stone or brick walls surrounding the stove.
You've still got possibilities for a fireplace feature by putting in a wood burning or multi fuel stove, even if your Norwich property hasn't got a chimney breast. A pre-existing chimney isn't needed in this instance since the flue is fitted to the top or rear of the wood burner and passed through an external wall.
MULTI-FUEL, OPEN, ELECTRIC, WOOD OR GAS FIREPLACE?
Who does not enjoy the crackling of an open fireplace on a cold evening, but if your circumstances do not allow for this, what alternatives are on offer?
Wood Burning Stoves - Even the tiniest room in Norwich can benefit from the fitting of a wood burner, which can be found in a variety of styles, and can even be fitted freestanding. A version with a back boiler will deliver additional heating capabilities by connecting the hot water to a radiator in a cold room of your house.
Gas Fireplaces - Offering instant heat and being more efficient when compared to wood burning stoves, there are a wide range of styles and designs to suit any Norwich home. Any gas fire in your Norwich home must be installed and maintained by a Gas Safe certified tradesperson.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - To introduce a stunning centerpiece in your living space, these can be used with a variety of fuels, such as gas, oil, wood or coal. If connected to your radiator system, some of the multi-fuel stoves (such as the AGA range) can provide you with heat for your entire home, in conjunction with cooking facilities, hot water and even outdoor BBQs.
Open Fireplaces - Can be used with a selection of different solid fuels, and provides an excellent focal point for your living area. At one time thought of as being smoky, draughty and inefficient, a well-installed modern open fireplace can be a joy to behold.
Electric Fireplaces - Simple installation and a wide choice of designs make electric fires a popular choice for Norwich properties without a chimney breast. When set into a traditional fireplace, today's electric fires can imitate an actual fire, with authentic looking flames and even the crackling sound of wood.
Fireplace fitters can be found in the Norwich area, and in: Postwick, Little Melton, Thorpe Hamlet, Earlham, Bawburgh, Bixley, Rackheath, Lakenham, Ringland, Eaton, Marlingford, Salhouse, Mt Pleasant, Trowse Newton, Heigham Grove, Intwood, Great Plumstead, plus places with postcodes like: NR1 1PY, NR1 1HZ, NR1 1PH, NR1 1TX, NR1 1UN, NR1 1BA, NR1 1JB, NR1 1LT, NR1 1AR, and NR1 1PQ. Two pointers which indicate that a fireplace installer comes in the Norwich area is if they've got the postcode NR1 and the telephone dialling code 01603. Norwich homeowners can use and benefit from these fireplace services.
Brick Fireplaces
Fireplaces that are made out of brick have been a common feature in buildings for centuries, and they remain a much loved design element today. A brick fireplace can add character, warmth, and a touch of rustic charm to any space. The following are some things to think about if you are considering adding a brick fireplace to your property in Norwich.
First of all, choose the style of brick fireplace you prefer. You can choose a standard style with a hearth and mantel, or a modern style with sleek, clean lines and a minimalist design. You can use a brick fireplace as a statement piece, so think carefully about the location and size of your fireplace. A large fireplace can provide a spectacular centerpiece in a room, whilst a smaller fireplace can provide a welcoming nook.
With regards to brick selection, you have plenty of options. Bricks come in a variety of colours and textures, so you can select the ideal brick to complement your property's style. You could even think about mixing and matching different brick styles to create a distinctive look.
Together with the aesthetic considerations, you will also want to look at the practical aspects of a brick fireplace. Good venting is important for safety, and you may also want to consider adding a fireplace insert or glass doors for increased efficiency. You'll also have to ensure the hearth is level and that the bricks are properly installed to prevent any possible hazards.
To summarise, brick fireplaces are a timeless addition to any property. They're versatile, durable, and can provide comfort and warmth for years to come. If you are considering a fireplace for your house in Norwich, a brick fireplace is an awesome choice.
Natural Stone Fireplaces
You could always consider bringing the outdoors inside, and build a fireplace out of natural stone, which is a wonderful way to achieve a really dramatic look. It's possible that your home's exterior has already got some natural features, such as a stone facade or boundary walls. Your fireplace inside, could match those natural features outside.
It is possible to create a stone fireplace with either full-depth stone or stone cladding, depending on your taste and spending budget. There are also a number of different stone types which you can employ for building a fireplace, including: limestone, marble, quartz, slate, granite or sandstone.
Precisely how your new fireplace looks, will depend on the kind of stone used, the method of building and the individuality of the stonemason or craftsman who builds it. Gather together some photographs and go over these with your fireplace company before they begin, if you have a clear idea of exactly what you want.
There is little doubt that stone fireplaces are generally more suitable for older properties, and may be a bit too striking and overwhelming for a modern home. However the choice, as they say, is yours.
Fireplace Installers Near Norwich
Also find: Marlingford fireplace installers, Intwood fireplace installers, Thorpe Hamlet fireplace installers, Postwick fireplace installers, Trowse Newton fireplace installers, Ringland fireplace installers, Bawburgh fireplace installers, Mt Pleasant fireplace installers, Great Plumstead fireplace installers, Earlham fireplace installers, Lakenham fireplace installers, Bixley fireplace installers, Little Melton fireplace installers, Rackheath fireplace installers, Heigham Grove fireplace installers, Salhouse fireplace installers, Eaton fireplace installers and more. Fireplace installation services are available in the majority of these towns and localities. The adept installation of a fireplace in your home is well within the skillset of these professional tradesmen, given their experience and know-how. These dedicated professionals can help residents experience the warmth, comfort and ambiance that a fireplace brings to their living spaces. Local property owners can get fireplace installation estimates by simply clicking here. Would your home benefit from the installation of a fireplace? Why not get a quote today?
Norwich Fireplace Related Tasks
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