Installing a fireplace: what you need to know
These practical hints, tips and solutions will help you better understand the process of installing a chimney and the best systems you can buy.
Get practical advice for installing a new fireplace into your renovation or self build from the experts.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Image: Stovax Gazco
A fireplace can be the real centrepiece of any room, adding warmth, snugness and style. Here’s a handy guide to what you need to know before installing a new one.
Chimneys and fuel types
Image: Stovax Gazco
One of the main things you should consider when choosing your stove or fire is whether or not it requires a flue. Solid fuel and gas heating products produce combustion gases when they burn, which will need to be removed from the appliance safely to the outside of your property via a chimney or flue system. Electric fires and stoves have no need for any type of flue and offer unparalleled installation versatility.
Solid fuel and gas products can be installed into homes with or without an existing masonry chimney. Installation into an existing chimney is relatively straightforward but depending on the current state of the chimney, and the size of the stove or fire you’ve chosen, some preparation work may be required.
To ensure the chimney is working correctly, it will need to be checked for any blockages as well as draw and airtightness, prior to installation. Your local independent retailer will be able to take care of these checks. They’ll also be able to ascertain whether the chimney opening needs to be enlarged to accommodate a larger stove and fire.
