Fireplaces are making a big comeback in homes over the past few years. While once seen as a luxurious feature that only the wealthy could afford, homeowners of all incomes are now seeing the value of having a fireplace as an essential part of the home.
Modern trends for fireplaces are leaning towards designs that are simpler, contemporary, and provide a great atmosphere for indoor and outdoor living areas. Fireplaces come in a variety of styles that include traditional masonry models with clean lines and sleek, modern built-in fireplaces that blend seamlessly with the decor.
Pellet stoves and electric fireplaces are also growing in popularity as an alternative to wood-burning fireplaces. They are easier to maintain and are better for the environment as they eliminate emissions, produce less waste, and use less energy.
The availability of pre-fabricated fireplaces has made it easier and more affordable than ever to add a fireplace to your home. Homeowners can also choose the type of fire they want, such as gas, electric, or wood-burning.
In general, people are drawn to fireplaces because of their appeal in creating an inviting atmosphere, providing a warming touch of décor to any room and enhancing your outdoor space. As such, fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular in homes of all sizes, budgets and styles.
Is stacked stone still in style?
Yes, stacked stone is still in style! It has a timeless look that works well in a variety of styles and settings. The look of stacked stone is very versatile and can create a variety of aesthetics, both modern and traditional.
It can be used to create a unified look throughout a room, tie together multiple spaces, or even to make a statement as a focal point. Stacked stone can also be used both indoors and outdoors, creating a cohesive flow between the two areas, which makes it a great option when renovating your space.
Additionally, its natural textures and patterns lend it an air of authenticity that can really elevate a design. Overall, stacked stone is a great way to add a sense of style, luxury, and timelessness to any space.
How do you update an old stone fireplace?
Updating an old stone fireplace can be a great way to add new life and style to your home. Depending on the look you are hoping to achieve.
One option is to repaint the stone surrounding the fireplace. This can be a great way to bring a modern style to the traditional look of a stone fireplace. Choose a paint color that complements your existing furniture and décor.
Be sure to use a high-quality primer designed for porous or masonry surfaces. Follow up with two to three coats of your chosen paint color, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
If you are looking to maintain the natural stone look, you can clean and refresh the surface with a stone cleaner. This can be found at most home improvement stores. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
If there are any mortar or grout lines, use a special grout cleaner to bring a more uniform look to your fireplace.
Replacing the hearth can add a significant upgrade to your fireplace. Choose a material that matches the remaining stone or choose something completely different. Granite and tile are some popular options.
Finally, adding accessories like a cast-iron fireback and andirons, a heavy-duty grate, or a new mantle can make all the difference. Accessorizing can give your fireplace an updated, fully functioning look.
Are brick fireplaces out of style?
Whether brick fireplaces are out of style really depends on your particular taste and preference. In recent years, brick fireplaces have become less popular as they can look a bit outdated and are more difficult to customize than other material.
However, many people still appreciate the classic and rustic look of brick fireplaces. If you like the look of brick, then you should go for it. On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern look, then you may want to consider other materials such as stone, tile, concrete, or even metal.
In the end, it’s all about what works best with your own style and design aesthetic.
How much does it cost to replace stone in fireplace?
The cost to replace stone in a fireplace can vary significantly depending on the material that needs to be replaced and the labor associated with the project. Replacing the stone around the firebox, for example, typically costs around $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the size of the fireplace and the type of stone.
If a full fireplace facelift is desired, stone veneers can run around $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the size of the fireplace, the type of stone, and the labor involved. If an entire stone mantle has to be replaced, those costs can range from $400 to $2,000 depending on the type of stone and size of the structure.
For larger scale projects, the cost can range up to $10,000 or more, depending on the size and style of stone used.
Is a stone fireplace more expensive than brick?
The cost of a stone fireplace is typically more expensive than a brick fireplace because of the materials used and the labor involved. Stone, such as granite and marble, is more expensive than brick because of the cost to quarry it and transport it to the worksite.
Additionally, stone needs to be cut and shaped to fit into the fireplace, which adds to its cost. Brick, on the other hand, is readily available in most areas, so it may be possible to find a good rate on the material and installation costs.
The labor to install a stone fireplace is typically more involved than with a brick fireplace. The mason has to cut, shape, and install the stone first, followed by the mortar and grout to fix the stone in place.
This usually adds several hours to the job compared to simply stacking and laying the bricks. In short, the cost of a stone fireplace tends to be higher than a brick fireplace due to the cost of the materials, the labor involved in cutting and shaping the stone, and the added amount of labor needed for the installation.
Can you replace stone on a fireplace?
Yes, you can definitely replace stone on a fireplace. Depending on the type of stone used, the replacement process may differ slightly, but generally the process includes cleaning off any old adhesive or mortar, applying a scratch coat to the area that will be receiving the stone, attaching the new stone to the scratch coat and grouting the joints between the stones.
It is recommended to have professional help in replacing stone on a fireplace, as lumber yards and stone suppliers can provide guidance regarding size, type and amount of stone needed, as well as offer installation services.
Additionally, some local building codes may require an inspection after the installation of your stone fireplace.
Does fireplace add value to home?
Yes, adding a fireplace to a home can add both tangible and intangible value. In terms of tangible value, a fireplace can increase the resale value of a home, especially if it is a natural gas or wood burning model.
For instance, a 2014 Houzz survey found that 65% of respondents felt their home value increased by adding a fireplace. Additionally, a fireplace can create an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, boosting a home’s curb appeal and helping it stand out in the real estate market.
On the intangible side, a fireplace adds a feeling of warmth and comfort to a home. Even when it is not in use, its presence immediately draws attention and enhances the room’s ambience. Furthermore, having a fireplace makes it easier to entertain guests, providing a natural focal point for any gathering.
Plus, with the advent of electric fireplaces, the cost and installation process is much lower than any traditional fireplace. Therefore, a fireplace can offer real estate advantages and make a home infinitely more inviting.
What type of fireplace is most popular?
The most popular type of fireplace is the traditional wood-burning fireplace, which is typically surrounded by brick or stone and topped by a mantel or other decorative façade. This classic style has been popular for hundreds of years and continues to be a sought-after choice today.
Wood-burning fireplaces do, however, require diligent maintenance and regular cleaning, particularly after each use, to ensure a safe and efficient burn.
Other popular types of fireplaces include gas, electric, and biofuel fireplaces. Gas fireplaces, while pricier upfront, are often the most cost-effective in the long run due to their abundantly efficient heat output.
Electric fireplaces provide a convenient option that requires no installation, but usually produce only minimal heat output since they are powered by electricity. Lastly, biofuel fireplaces can be an eco-friendly option for those looking for an alternative to traditional fireplaces.
While offerings for biofuel fireplaces can vary, the most popular types use bioethanol, a type of natural alcohol that produces a clean, smokeless flame when burned.
How do I choose a fireplace surround?
Choosing the right fireplace surround for your home can be a challenging task, as there are a variety of factors to consider including size, shape, color, and material. When selecting the right fireplace surround, you will want to consider the surrounding area and the overall design of your home.
First, determine how much space you can dedicate to the fireplace surround. It is important to measure the area in which it will be installed and take any additional dimensions into consideration, such as the height and width of the space in which it will be mounted.
Knowing the dimensions of the area will help you determine the size of fireplace surround that best suits your space.
Next, consider the shape of the fireplace surround. The most common shapes are rectangular, square, and oval. You may find that the shape of the surround will help aesthetically tie the room together.
Once you’ve determined the size and shape of the fireplace surround, you can then begin to think about color and material. For example, if you have a traditional home, you may prefer a natural stone surround, such as limestone or marble.
If you have a modern home, then a sleek, contemporary surround made of ceramic tile or stainless steel may be more appropriate. As far as color is concerned, consider what colors you have used throughout the room and in the overall design of your home.
Finally, find a fireplace surround that is both safe and cost-effective. Be sure to purchase a surround that is fireproof and certified by an independent testing lab. And, consider your budget; fireplace surrounds can range from being very inexpensive to one of the most expensive investments in your home, but there are a variety of options to meet everyone’s needs.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you make the best possible choice of fireplace surround for your home.
What Colour should a fireplace surround be?
When choosing a colour for your fireplace surround, it is important to take several factors into consideration. For example, if you are going for a classic aesthetic, a muted grey or off-white color would work best.
A cool blue tone can also help to create a more modern look. Alternatively, you could opt for something a bit more dramatic, such as a deep red, mahogany, or black. Whatever option you choose, it is important to also take into consideration the rest of the room when determining the best color.
If your living room has a lot of cool, light colors, then a complementary, warm tone for the fireplace surround would work best. An overly bright or dark color could make the fireplace stand out too much and detract from the overall look of the room.
Finally, you may want to look at the elements you are working with, such as wood, stone, or metal. The colour you select should help to enhance the materials and create a balanced look.
Should fireplace be lighter or darker than walls?
Whether the fireplace should be lighter or darker than the walls in a room depends largely on personal preference, the existing color scheme of the room, as well as the size and shape of the fireplace.
Generally speaking, lighter colors often make a space appear larger and more open, while darker colors can create a sense of warmth and intimacy. If the room is very light, then a darker fireplace can create a visual focal point and add a sense of drama to the room.
For the same reason, a lighter fireplace can be used to tone down a room with strong, dark colors. However, if the fireplace is very large, then it may be best to stick to lighter paint colors in order to avoid making the fireplace overpower the rest of the room.
Ultimately, the choice of lighter or darker walls is up to the homeowner and should take into account the effect the paint colors will have on the overall atmosphere of the space.
Should your mantel match your floor?
When styling a space, the goal is for it to look aesthetically pleasing and flow together tastefully. Whether or not your mantel should match your floor depends on the look you’re trying to achieve for your room.
If you want to create a traditional, classic look, then you may want to opt for having your mantel match your floor. This could be done by using the same wood, material and/or color, or by using different materials or colors in the same family.
On the other hand, if you have a color-coordinated space and want to make a bold statement, then you can choose to have your mantel be a contrasting color to your floor. This could create an eye-catching focal point.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what look you want to create in your room and if you want your mantel to match your floor.
What is the paint to use on a fire surround?
When it comes to painting a fire surround it’s important to use paint that is high temperature tolerant and can withstand heat that is produced by the fireplace. Flat Glidden Fireproofing Paint is an ideal option as it has been designed to resist temperatures up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit and it provides a smooth, durable finish.
It is important to always use several coats of paint to ensure a thorough and even coverage. After the first coat is applied and allowed to dry, sanding should be done in between each coat, and the painting should be finished with a top coat of a high-gloss, heat-resistant sealer.
It is also recommended that after each coat of paint is applied that the surface is allowed to dry and then the area is wiped off with a dry cloth to ensure that there is no dust or debris in the paint or finish.
