Fireplace Fitter Torquay Devon (TQ1): A good way to add a touch of charm, character and a cozy feel to any property in Torquay, is to re-open an old disused fireplace to fit a multi-fuel, open or wood burner fireplace. If you opt to combine your new fireplace with a back boiler, you can not only enjoy the warmth and ambience of an open fire or stove during the chilly winters' evenings, you will also be supplied with a plentiful supply of piping hot water.
To achieve an efficient and safe fireplace, there are some vital considerations you must keep in mind, before you start smashing down the walls of a bricked-up fireplace. Work that's undertaken on the hearths, chimney breasts, flue linings and fireplaces of any combustible appliances, must adhere to Part J of the UK's Building Regulations. If you reside in a designated conservation area or a listed building you must check with local authorities to see if planning permission is necessary for installing a fireplace in your house.
DIY OR PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
If you are a competent and enthusiastic do-it-yourselfer it might be quite possible to restore an existing blocked or bricked-up fireplace, however the probability of experiencing structural problems in the majority of cases is high. You could be fortunate when revealing your old fireplace and find you need nothing more than a decent chimney sweep and a quick clean out of the hearth in order to get a fire roaring. What is more common however is a swathe of crumbling brickwork covering a stopped up flue, and also requires some degree of structural modification before it can be used safely.
It is normally recommended to draw on the knowledge and experience of a professional fireplace fitter in Torquay, on account of the severe fire and health risks that can be caused by an improperly fitted or refurbished fireplace. As is stated in the Building Regulations for fireplaces, there must be adequate airflow in a room where there's a fireplace, because in order for it to burn efficiently, a sufficient amount of oxygen is needed. A build-up of poisonous carbon monoxide can result in a room where there is insufficient airflow, and even death is a risk when a fire doesn't burn efficiently.
It could be necessary to install airflow vents in floors and walls to allow the fireplace to receive enough oxygen to burn safely and properly at all times. Condensed air can frequently get trapped within blocked chimney flues which might also need to have air vents installed, to avoid problems with dampness and staining in the chimney breast.
BEFORE WORK STARTS
When re-opening a disused fireplace for refurbishing, you may be surprised by the quantity of soot and dust that has accumulated in your chimney. A decent Torquay fireplace fitter will bring dust sheets to cover up your home furnishings and supply a bit of protection, however it is advisable when possible to remove woven floor coverings and furniture from the room before work starts. If you're lucky enough to be working on a full home restoration project then it should be one of the very first jobs to complete before you re-plaster or decorate the walls. This prevents any staining damage to any restored work you have already finished.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
Once you have exposed your old fireplace you will have a greater idea of what work needs to be done, and also be able to rigorously sweep the chimney and clear out any hearth that remains. Bringing in a proper chimney sweep to de-soot your chimney is one of the initial items on your agenda. They'll not only ensure your flue and chimney are completely clean, but they can also determine the condition of the chimney and flue liner and offer advice about whether you need to upgrade any part of the chimney structure and flue.
It may be essential to install a new flue liner to comply with the Building Regulations, and construction might also be needed to strengthen the original chimney and breast. This type of work should be tackled by a competent tradesperson with experience of the current Building Regulations and good construction practices.
If the dimensions of the original fireplace are bigger than your requirements, a steel or concrete lintel will have to be put in. As soon as you've successfully supported your fireplace with a lintel it will then be time to renovate or update the hearth. A lot of fireplace hearths were set into voids in the floor in the olden days. If that's the scenario with yours it will need to be raised above the level of the floor if it's to comply with the building regs as they stand. Pre-made options from stone, marble or concrete are available to achieve this, or your fireplace fitter in Torquay should be able to provide you with a bespoke, made to measure hearth to complement your room style.
FIREPLACE STYLE
Deciding on your choice of fireplace can be difficult amongst the many styles available from a fireplace showroom or online outlet. It's quite possible that due to your current chimney, flue and airflow to the room, that some fireplaces might not be appropriate, and it's a good idea to follow the the recommendations and advice of the fireplace installer with respect to this.
Your current decor, the overall look you're trying to create and perhaps even, your home's age, will influence whether you go for a multi-fuel stove, a wood burner or an open fireplace. An old-fashioned iron wood-burner stove for example, will look fantastic when set into an inglenook fireplace, which deflects the heat back into the room and puts a focus on its character and charm.
A wood-burning stove is also a great choice if your Torquay home hasn't got a chimney breast. Since a flue can be channeled through an external wall and has no need of a chimney, it is still feasible to install this type of fireplace.
ELECTRIC, GAS, WOOD, MULTI-FUEL OR OPEN FIREPLACE?
If your situation doesn't allow for a natural fireplace to be installed, what are the possible options?
Multi-Fuel Stoves - As you'll likely assume from the name, these sorts of stoves can run on a selection of different fuels, including oil, coal, gas or wood, and not only that, they can also create a great focal point for your living space. Some designs, like the AGA range, are also suitable for generating hot water, cooking and heating your entire home.
Wood Burning Stoves - Coming in an enormous selection of designs which can be a free standing feature if required, these popular stoves can be installed in even the tiniest of rooms. A version with a back boiler will supply supplementary heating capabilities by connecting the heated water to radiators in cold rooms in your home.
Gas Fireplaces - Offering instant heat and more thermally efficient when compared to open fireplaces, there are a wide array of styles to suit any period of property. Gas fires must only be maintained and installed by a certified Gas Safe registered technician, (Gas Safe replaced CORGI registration in 2009).
Open Fireplaces - Having the ability to burn almost any solid fuel on the market, the open fireplace can produce a roaring fire as an excellent focal point for any room or living area. Previously associated with being inefficient, smoky and draughty, a professionally installed contemporary open fireplace can be a joy to behold.
Electric Fireplaces - These can be fitted easily and safely by anyone who is reasonable competent and there are varieties which are suitable for any room and property in Torquay. Modern electric fires can provide authentic looking flames and and sometimes even the sound of crackling wood to replicate a real open fire when inset into a traditional fireplace.
Fireplace Inserts
Homeowners in Torquay who want to enhance their traditional fireplaces often prefer to install fireplace inserts. To enhance fireplace efficiency, these inserts have been devised to direct more heat into the room and reduce heat loss. For those who appreciate the ambience of a fire, these inserts provide a less complicated and safer option, free from the drawbacks of conventional wood-burning fireplaces.
Fireplace inserts come in a variety of styles and sizes, ranging from electric to gas and wood-burning models. With minimal maintenance required, gas fireplace inserts are easy to use, while electric inserts offer adaptability and convenience with their remote control and variable settings. For those who prefer the authentic experience of a crackling fire and the aroma of burning wood, wood-burning inserts are the ideal choice for property owners.
Fireplace inserts are environmentally friendly, in addition to their convenience and efficiency. Producing fewer emissions and burning fuel more efficiently, they lessen the amount of air pollution caused by conventional fireplaces.
Having a professional installation is crucial to guarantee the safe and correct installation of a fireplace insert. Offering a range of benefits, fireplace inserts are an excellent investment for any homeowner seeking to improve the comfort, convenience, and value of their home. Fireplace inserts offer a dual benefit of enhancing home comfort and saving property owners money on heating bills by directing more heat into the room and reducing heat loss. It is important to consider the possibility of different venting options being required for various types of fireplace inserts. Consulting with a professional is essential for property owners to determine the most suitable venting system for their specific fireplace insert, as well as to guarantee proper installation and safety.
Brick Fireplaces Torquay
Brick fireplaces have long been a dominant feature in home design. They provide character, warmth and charm to any space. Whilst traditional brick fireplaces were mainly used for heating purposes, they have been reinvented as a statement piece in modern homes. Here are some things to consider if you're considering a brick fireplace for your house in Torquay.
First and foremost, you'll need to choose the style of fireplace you prefer. Traditional brick fireplaces usually feature a basic design with a mantel and hearth. Nonetheless, you could also opt for a more contemporary design with a sleek finish and clean lines.
When it comes to brick selection, you have plenty of options. Brick comes in a variety of textures and colours, thus you can select the ideal brick to complement the design of your home. You could even think about mixing and matching brick styles to create a unique and different look.
Finally, keep in mind the practical considerations. A brick fireplace can be a source of heat for your dwelling, so you'll want to make sure it's adequately vented and that it is being used in a secure and safe way.
A brick fireplace can be a functional and eye-catching feature in your property in Torquay. With a bit of planning and attention to detail, you can create a fireplace that not only provides warmth but also adds character and charm to your home.
Natural Stone Fireplaces Torquay
For that truly dramatic look why not consider bringing the outside in with a natural stone fireplace? A stone facade or boundary wall may already be a natural stone feature of your home's exterior areas. Your fireplace inside, could match those natural features outside.
A natural stone fireplace can be created using either full-depth stone or stone cladding. Your taste and budget could determine which one you pick. The sorts of stone that can be used are many and varied. Choose from slate, granite, quartz, limestone, marble or sandstone.
The finished appearance your finished fireplace will depend on the building method (dry stone or mortar built), the methodology used by the stonemason or tradesman who builds it and the sort of stone that's used. Pick a design and style that you would like to end up with, and show the fireplace installer some photos before they begin the project.
Stone isn't always suitable for a contemporary home, because it has a striking appearance and could rather dominate the appearance of a room, but obviously that is down to the choice of each individual householder - maybe dramatic and spectacular is what you're looking for!
Torquay Fireplace Related Tasks
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Fireplace Installers Near Torquay
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