Fireplace Fitter Wantage Oxfordshire (OX12): A fantastic way to add some character to any Wantage home is by the installation of a new fireplace, or the restoration of an existing one. Adding a multi-fuel stove or open fire for those frosty winter evenings can even prove to be more economical than some central heating systems, providing that you have a good source of fuel. If used in combination with a back boiler it can supply you with a plentiful supply of hot water in the process.
Before you go chipping away at a blocked up chimney there are some things you will need to think about to ensure you can safely install and use your new fireplace. Any work that is undertaken on your chimney breast, fireplace, hearth and flue lining must comply with the Part J Building Regs for combustible appliances. If you live in a listed building you will also need to ascertain if planning permission is necessary from the local authorities before any work can begin.
PROFESSIONAL OR DIY FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
A simple remodel of an existing fireplace can be achieved by a skilled do-it-yourselfer, however if any construction work is required there is the possibility of encountering structural problems which need to be resolved by a professional. You could be fortunate when exposing your old fireplace and find out you need little more than a decent chimney sweep and a quick clean out of the hearth to get a fire roaring. What's more common however is a swathe of old brickwork that hides a stopped up flue, and needs some form of structural modification before it can be used safely.
If fireplaces are installed incorrectly there's not just a fire risk to your home, but there can be associated health hazards, which is why it is better to hire a professional Wantage installation company for fireplaces. According to the Building Regulations, a room with a fireplace must have enough airflow and oxygen to allow the fire to burn properly and efficiently. Carbon monoxide gas (which is lethal) can accumulate in an inadequately ventilated room where a fire that is burning inefficiently is installed.
To safely overcome any problems with air flow, vents might be fitted around the room during a fireplace installation, to ensure suitable oxygen levels reach the fire. They may have to install vents into unused chimney flues which sometimes trap condensing air and lead to damp spots and staining to your chimney breast.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
A huge amount of soot and dirt can be discharged from an old fireplace upon reopening it for renovation. Even with coverings for your furniture, the risk of impairment from muck and soot is still likely and it's advisable to remove your furniture, rugs and carpets before any fireplace renovation work and chimney cleaning starts. If your fireplace is being installed as part of an overall home restoration project then it should be one of the initial things to be worked on after you've brought the room back to bare floors and walls. By opening a fireplace first you'll prevent any chimney soot causing discolouring damage to other parts of your renovation project, such as wallpapered walls or fresh plasterwork.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
With the fireplace opened up, it is time to see what needs to be renovated or replaced and give the hearth and chimney a comprehensive clean. You now ought to speak to your chimney sweep, if you've not already done this, to come and clean the old fireplace and chimney. Not only will they make certain your chimney and flue are completely clean, but they can additionally determine the state of the chimney and flue liner and provide advice about whether you need to upgrade any part of the flue and chimney.
It could be necessary to put in a new flue lining to observe the current Building Regulations, and construction work may also be needed to strengthen the existing chimney and breast. These are tasks that require a skilled craftsman with a knowledge of the pertinent building regs and sound construction skills.
In buildings that are older you might discover that the existing fireplace is too big for your needs, in which case a supporting concrete lintel will be necessary to modify the opening. When you have successfully supported the fireplace with your lintel it is now necessary to repair or update the hearth. You might discover that the original hearth has been set into the floor, but to be in accordance with current regulations it must be raised above floor level. Off-the-shelf options from concrete, slate or marble are available to achieve this, or your fireplace fitter in Wantage might be able to provide you with a bespoke, custom-made hearth to complement the design of your room.
DESIGNS OF FIREPLACE
A trip to a fireplace showroom or a browse online will reveal the options available for the different fireplace designs and styles. It is quite possible that owing to your current chimney, flue and airflow to the room, that some fireplace designs may not be appropriate, and it pays to follow the advice of your fireplace company with respect to this.
Whether you go for a multi-fuel stove, an open fireplace or a wood burner will be determined by the all round style that you are trying to develop, your existing decor and maybe, the age of your property. If you've got an old-fashioned inglenook fireplace, a cast iron wood burner can look amazing set within it, which also has the benefit of reflecting the heat back into the room from the stone or brick walls surrounding the stove.
Even if you don't have a pre-existing chimney in your Wantage home, it's still entirely possible to install a multi-fuel or wood burning stove. So long as you have an external wall through which a flue from the back or top of the stove can be passed, you don't need a pre-existing chimney structure to enjoy that "real" fire experience.
WOOD, OPEN, ELECTRIC, MULTI-FUEL OR GAS FIREPLACE?
The charm and ambience of a "real" fire can't be matched, but what alternatives are out there if this kind of fireplace isn't possible in your Wantage property?
Wood Burning Stoves - Wood burning stoves have become "the in thing" in many homes in Wantage, and can have modern or classic styling to complement your home's decor. A model with a back boiler will supply supplementary heating by transferring the hot water to radiators in cold spots in your house.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - As the name indicates multi-fuel stoves can be fired up with with various fuels, such as gas, oil, wood or smokeless coal, and become a focal point in any living room or kitchen in Wantage. They can be utilised not only for heating a single room, but some designs like the AGA range, can supply hot water, provide a useful cooking area and can be used to heat the complete home if they are plumbed into a network of radiators.
Gas Fireplaces - Gas fireplaces are available in a wide range of designs to suit any property and are more thermally efficient than wood burning stoves. Gas fires must only be maintained and fitted by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer, (formerly CORGI registered).
Open Fireplaces - A flickering fire is a stunning focal point for any room in your home and it has the ability to burn almost any solid fuel that you can buy. An expertly fitted open fire will be nothing like the smoky old fireplace that was perhaps bricked up by former owners, and its warm charm is a delightful addition to any house in Wantage.
Electric Fireplaces - Electric fireplaces can be fitted easily and safely by anybody who's reasonable competent and there are varieties which are suitable for virtually any room and type of property in Wantage. Even if your house has a traditional fireplace, an electric fire that looks almost like a "real" fire can be fitted.
Fireplace installation providers can be obtained in Wantage itself, in the following postcodes: OX12 8FA, OX12 8GA, OX12 2DL, OX12 7AQ, OX12 8AJ, OX12 7BS, OX12 7EQ, OX12 7HF, OX12 8NA, and OX12 8AN, plus in adjacent areas like Letcombe Regis, East Challow, Marcham, Stanford in the Vale, Lambourn, Compton, Steventon, Ardington, Denchworth, East Hendred, Harwell, East Hanney, East Lockinge, Grove. A couple of hints which imply that a fireplace service operates in Wantage area is if they have the postcode OX12 and the dialling code 01235. Wantage property owners have lots of choices when they are trying to find fireplace services. If you simply click the "QUOTE" banner or form, you'll get information on fireplaces in your region.
Flue Linings
An important addition to your chimney system, a chimney or flue liner improves the safety of your chimney while at the same time allowing it to perform more efficiently than it otherwise would. Flue liners are ducts made of metal, ceramic material or clay which are fitted to the inside of chimneys to transport fumes outside. Depending on their age and condition, older chimneys in Wantage might have to be re-lined, or might not have a lining at all.
Your chimney flue lining can soon be affected by the harmful fumes and gases that are created by burning a fire. While it is being cleaned, get the sweep or fireplace specialist to assess your flue for any impairment or chances of it malfunctioning in the future. Rather than expelling those hazardous gases outdoors, a compromised flue can allow them to leak into your home's living area. There is additionally the danger of fires inside the home since an impaired flue can enable intense heat to penetrate the chimney's structure.
Chimney Cowl Installation Wantage
A chimney cowl is a hood-shaped covering for your chimney pot that adds draft and prevents backflow. It is usually made of galvanized iron and fits over the chimney pot to keep the wind from blowing smoke back down. It is an essential component for any chimney in Wantage. It can be bought online or in a hardware store. Whether you choose to purchase a new one or make an existing one work better, a cowl will keep your fireplace or stove working efficiently.
A chimney cowl can also help protect your home and keep you safe. There are several types of chimney cowls available on the market, each designed to address different issues. Before you purchase one, consider a few aspects to ensure you get one that will help protect your home. Once you know what you need, you can then choose a chimney cowl based on your budget and needs.
You can also find chimney cowls made from everyday objects, like a stainless steel colander or steel bucket. Chicken wire can also be used to make a cowl. Clay flower pots also make good chimney cowls. These covers can be purchased at a local hardware store or online.
One of the most common types of chimney cowls is the H-style. This style is the most effective at stabilizing the draft and allows your fireplace to function more efficiently. It is made from a series of H-shaped pipes that isolate the combustion gases from down drafts. It originally served marine applications but has become popular among homeowners due to its energy-saving functionality.
Another type is the Aerodyne cowl. It works by drawing air into the chimney cowl and reducing downdraught. It is available in a variety of colours. Its venturi shape draws air into the chimney cowl, creating a drop in air pressure that draws air upward from the stove. Other types of chimney cowl include: aspirotor chimney cowls, birdguards, revolving chimney cowls, bonnet chimney cowls, anti-downdraught chimney cowls and static chimney cowls.
Chimney cowls are a simple way to prevent birds from nesting in your chimney in Wantage. They are inexpensive and easy to install. You should make sure you have easy access to the area above the chimney to install one. It can also prevent debris from accumulating inside the chimney. Ask your local fireplace installer in Wantage if they can fit a suitable chimney cowl for you.
Log Burner Fireplaces Wantage
Wood-burning stoves, often referred to as log burner fireplaces, have gained popularity among householders who desire both practical heating solutions and aesthetic appeal. Offering a rustic and charming touch, these fireplaces create a snug and cosy atmosphere in any home during the colder winter months. Not only do log burning stoves have visual appeal, but they are also very efficient, offering significant warmth with inexpensive fuel expenses. Their combination of elegance and practicality makes them a much favoured choice for many interior design schemes.
Installing a wood-burning stove, however, requires careful consideration and planning. First and foremost, selecting the right size and model that fits your property's particular requirements is vital. You must take into account aspects like room size, insulation quality and ventilation. Having the stove professionally installed is highly recommended to ensure safety and compliance with local building regulations. Not only does proper installation assure optimum performance, but it also decreases the dangers of hazards like chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks.
Owning a log-burning fireplace involves another important aspect: and that is maintenance. For safe and efficient use, both your chimney and stove require frequent cleaning to prevent a build-up of creosote, a substance produced when wood burns. To keep the system functioning well, yearly inspections by accredited specialists are advisable. To enjoy the warmth and ambiance of their log burner fireplaces and ensure their safety and longevity, homeowners should adhere to these maintenance measures. (Log Burner Fireplaces Wantage)
Chimney Repair Wantage
The safety, functionality and efficiency of both commercial and domestic chimney systems in Wantage can be maintained through regular chimney repair. With the passage of time, chimneys can be subjected to deterioration due to exposure to temperature fluctuations, weather elements, and the byproducts of combustion. Timely and expert attention is required for the range of issues that can be caused by these factors.
The development of cracks in the chimney structure is one of the most common problems that necessitate chimney repair. Such cracks can undermine the structural integrity of the chimney, increasing the risk of moisture ingress and even more damage. Dangerous gases, including carbon monoxide, can escape from cracks in the chimney and into the living spaces, posing serious health hazards to any occupants of the building.
The build-up of debris and creosote in the chimney flue is another issue that can sometimes occur. Creosote accumulation in chimneys can make them less efficient and more likely to catch fire. During routine chimney cleaning as part of the repair procedure, soot, debris and creosote are removed, which ensures proper airflow and reduces fire hazards.
Chimney repair can also deal with issues such as chimney leaks. Resulting from leaks, the entry of water into the chimney system can cause deterioration, rusting, and damage to the chimney liner. Decreased efficiency and more structural issues could ensue from this. Appropriate repairs involve identifying the source of the leak, sealing any openings, and applying waterproofing solutions to prevent future leaks.
Underlying problems in your chimney can easily be missed by a DIY repair, making it a hazardous and potentially inadequate undertaking. Trade standards and effective repairs are assured when you hire specialist chimney repair services. Accredited chimney technicians have the expertise to assess the level of damage, recommend suitable repairs, and apply solutions that guarantee the performance and safety of the chimney system.
To keep your chimney functioning effectively for years to come, schedule routine inspections and address any issues in a timely manner. Identifying and resolving issues at an early stage prevents them from worsening and becoming costlier to fix. A chimney in need of repairs is a ticking time bomb. Without care and attention, it could suffer further deterioration, hindering its ability to function correctly, and possibly become a safety hazard.
In brief, effective chimney maintenance goes beyond mere cleaning. Repairs for cracks, leaks, the accumulation of creosote, and all-round structural integrity are just as important. Professional repair services are an important investment in your chimney's well-being. They optimise its efficiency, prioritise safety, and guarantee compliance with trade standards. The recipe for a fantastic chimney system? Routine inspections, timely repairs, and professional assistance. This winning combination guarantees efficient heating, a comfortable living space, and a safe environment. (21016 - Chimney Repairs Wantage)
Fireplace Installation Information and Advice
To see the latest on social media websites, check this out. To discover what's happening in the field of fireplace installation pay a visit to one of the fireplace forums, topics include things like widening a fireplace, wood burning stoves, pellet stoves and boilers, trims for stoves, chimney design and building regulations. These days there are some nice posts about fireplace installation online, therefore if you are eager to find out about fireplace mantels head here. Find suggestions for installing a gas fireplace on You Tube here. Wikipedia is an excellent place to head to if you would like to find out more about fireplaces, their dedicated page discusses fireplace accessories, the heating efficiency of fireplaces, the various types of fireplace, the health effects of fireplaces, how fireplaces affect the environment and the history of the fireplace.
Wantage Fireplace Related Tasks
Your local Wantage fireplace installer can provide a number of different services and tasks, and in addition to what has already been covered they should be able to do open fireplaces, fire grate conversions, classic fireplaces, inglenook fireplace, hearth fireplaces in Wantage, marble fireplace surrounds, electric fire suites, fireplace surrounds, Regency fireplaces, electric suites, designer fireplaces in Wantage, chimney modifications, tiled fireplaces, double-sided stove installation in Wantage, fireplace suites, fake fireplaces, chimney strengthening, corner fireplaces, brick fireplaces, fireplace installation, contemporary fireplaces, cheap fireplaces, flue liner installation, elm fireplaces, Victorian fireplaces, fireplace design, fireplace fitting, traditional fireplaces, electric fireplace installation, chimney repairs, to mention a few. In regards to what is available, this is on no account an exhaustive list of the services that are on offer from a local fireplace installer. Wantage companies will will be glad to tell you about their whole range of fireplace sevices if you contact them.
Fireplace Installers Near Wantage
Also find: East Hanney fireplace installers, Denchworth fireplace installers, Stanford in the Vale fireplace installers, Compton fireplace installers, Marcham fireplace installers, East Challow fireplace installers, East Lockinge fireplace installers, Lambourn fireplace installers, Harwell fireplace installers, Steventon fireplace installers, Letcombe Regis fireplace installers, East Hendred fireplace installers, Grove fireplace installers, Ardington fireplace installers and more. Most of these locations are catered for by companies who install fireplaces. With the requisite experience and know-how, these versatile tradespeople are adept at adeptly installing fireplaces in your property. Thanks to the support from these dedicated specialists, residents can relish the warmth and cosy atmosphere a fireplace provides in their living environments. By clicking here, fireplace installation quotes are readily accessible to local property owners.
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Fireplace installation in OX12 area, 01235.