Updating an outdated fireplace entails considering both the aesthetics and the functionality. One approach is to replace the fireplace’s facade with something more modern and attractive. This could entail replacing the original bricks with new ones, and installing a mantelpiece or other decorative accents.
Other cosmetic changes could include new paint and accessories like art pieces.
To make the fireplace more functional and energy efficient, more involved steps may need to be taken, like installation of a gas, electric, or ethanol-burning insert. If a gas or electric insert is chosen, existing masonry fireplaces may need to be modified or reinforced to support the weight.
Installation of a ventless or direct vent insert allows the user to use the fireplace without having to open and close a damper in the chimney.
Whichever project is chosen, it’s important to consult with a professional or a certified technician as certain guidelines may need to be followed.
How can I make my fireplace look nice?
Giving your fireplace a fresh and updated look can be a great way to give your home a new aesthetic. There are a few ways to accomplish this.
First, consider changing the tile around the fireplace. If it has been a while since you’ve updated the tile, there are plenty of modern designs to choose from that can really make your fireplace stand out.
You can even choose a tile pattern or color to match the rest of the room’s decor.
Second, consider adding a mantel if there isn’t one already. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to mantels and they can really help to spruce up the look of your fireplace. You can go with a rustic wood mantel, a sleek stone mantel, or something completely modern.
Third, be sure to include the right accessories. Adding some artwork, a few plants, and a set of candles can create a stunning focal point for your fireplace. You may also want to add a vase of fresh flowers, frames, or other decorative pieces.
Finally, you may want to consider painting the walls around your fireplace. Choose a color that complements your existing decor to help bring the entire look together.
With these tips, you can easily create a beautiful and eye-catching fireplace for your home.
Are fireplaces going out of style?
Fireplaces are still a desirable feature in the home and not going out of style anytime soon. They continue to be viewed as a romantic and comforting piece for many families and individuals to gather around.
While designs for fireplaces have changed through the years, the concept of sitting around a wood-burning fire is still attractive to many people. Certain factors, like the economic and environmental benefits that come with using a wood-burning fire, have led to an increase in the popularity of fireplaces.
Electric and gas fireplaces, fiberglass, and stone fireplaces all offer efficiency and convenience, while providing the warmth and ambience that a traditional wood-burning fire creates. Fireplaces will continue to be a desirable feature in homes and will never completely go out of style.
What are the latest trends in fireplaces?
The latest trends in fireplaces are built-in electric models designed to look like wood burning stoves or inserts. They often feature realistic flickering flames and glowing embers, simulated flames that move in different directions, and a variety of customizable features like heat output levels, heat zones, and flame colors.
Many of these fireplaces have accompanying remote controls for convenience and comfort. Some other trends in fireplaces include gas fireplaces with natural-looking stones and logs, 3D flame visuals, and fireplace mantels with modern styling.
With the addition of modern technology, fireplaces are now able to be used all year round. They can heat an entire home, provide aesthetic beauty and extra storage space, and come in a variety of sizes and finishes to fit any space.
Homeowners now have the ability to customize the look of their fireplace to fit the style and design of their home.
Why don t new houses have fireplaces?
One of the main reasons is fire safety. Fireplaces are a potential fire hazard and could pose a risk if used improperly. Additionally, fireplaces require regular maintenance and upkeep to make sure they are running safely.
This could be an added expense for homeowners.
Another potential reason why new houses don’t have fireplaces is that the cost to build and install a fireplace can be expensive. Even if the fireplace is pre-built, the costs for fuel and venting can add up quickly.
Moreover, the cost to build a chimney, if needed, would be high and would increase the construction costs significantly.
Finally, some modern home designs don’t include fireplaces due to their design. Fireplaces generally need to be placed in an open area, with some space to ventilate the smoke safely. With more open-concept and modern homes, the space needed to install a fireplace may not be available, making it difficult and potentially costly to add one.
How do you make a brick fireplace look modern?
To make a brick fireplace look modern, you need to use modern design elements like a bright white paint, shelves, and a clean-cut mantle. Start by painting the bricks with a bright white color. This helps to modernize the look and can act as a great backdrop for pieces of art.
Then, get creative with the shelving. Instead of using pre-made shelves, go for custom shelves that are stylish, and made of metal or wood. When selecting a mantle, go for something simpler that still ties the piece together.
Regardless of the materials you choose, getting a clean and polished look is essential for achieving a modern style. Finally, top the piece off with décor or pieces of art that reflect your style. This will help to complete the modern look.
Are mantles outdated?
Mantles are not necessarily outdated, although they may no longer be as popular as they once were. In fact, mantles still offer many stylish and practical solutions which can add a unique touch to any living space.
Depending on the type of mantle you choose, they can add an air of sophistication and warmth to a room, while acting as a focal point that can be used to display collectibles and other decorative items.
Additionally, mantles are often used to provide needed storage when limited space is an issue, as well as to cover up exposed chimney flues or other imperfections in a room. Ultimately, the decision of whether to incorporate a mantle into a space is largely a matter of personal style and preference.
Should you paint your fireplace?
Whether or not you should paint your fireplace really depends on the type of fireplace you have, the aesthetic goals you want to achieve, and the practical considerations involved. If you have a gas fireplace, it’s generally not advisable to paint it, as paint and other chemicals can emit toxic fumes when exposed to extreme heat.
However, for a wood-burning fireplace, it’s a different story. If the bricks and mortar are in good condition, then a coat of paint can instantly update the look of your living space. Some tips when painting your fireplace: Start by giving the surface a good scrub to remove dirt and soot; use a primer before the paint of your chosen color to ensure better adhesion; and pick out a heat-resistant paint to avoid future damage.
What do you put around a fireplace insert?
When installing a new fireplace insert, it is important to use the right materials to ensure the safety of the structure and its occupants. Generally, the material used to surround a fireplace insert will vary depending on whether the insert is a gas or wood-burning model.
For gas-burning inserts, a non-combustible material should be used for the structure surrounding the insert. This could include brick, stone, marble, or tile – the type of material chosen will depend on the type of look you are aiming for.
Additionally, a hearth pad and mantel should be installed to finish the look.
Wood-burning fireplace inserts traditionally require more insulation than gas-burning models. As such, it is also important to consider heat dissipation when choosing the material used around the insert.
Commonly used materials include brick, marble, stone, and ceramic tile. However, non-combustible materials such as concrete, metal, and tempered glass should also be considered to increase safety. Additionally, a hearth pad, mantel, and screen should be installed to ensure safety and prevent sparks from escaping the fireplace.
What kind of paint is safe to use inside a fireplace?
When selecting paint for a fireplace, it is important to choose one that is heat resistant and safe to use inside the fireplace. High heat paints, often referred to as heat-resistant paints, are specifically designed for use in environments with extreme temperatures, such as fireplaces.
These paints can withstand temperatures up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit and are highly resistant to corrosion, fading, and chipping. Heat resistant paints are typically oil-based paints and can be found in a variety of colors.
It is important to properly prepare the fireplace before painting, to ensure the paint will adhere properly. This typically involves scraping away any residue from the fireplace, cleaning the surface, and applying a primer before applying the paint.
Without a proper preparation, the paint could easily discolor and peel from the surface of the fireplace.
