Everybody might think that Christmas is about getting the latest Xbox or a new set of golf clubs but for me Christmas has always been about gathering with family and friends. And nothing says Christmas like getting everyone around a cozy fireplace to share a toast of egg nog and enjoy each other’s company.
As a chimney technician and a fireplace remodeler, I have seen my fair share of fireplaces. I am sure that you’re not surprised that fireplaces and firepit have been around since man. Ancient fire pits were sometimes built in the ground, inside caves, or sometimes in a hut.
The real gamechanger happened in 1678 when Prince Rupert, nephew of Charles I was able to improve the airflow and venting system by raising the grate. One of our country’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin developed a convection chamber for the fireplace which enabled fireplaces and wood stoves to become more efficient. Benjamin Thompson or Count Rumford designed what could be considered to be the first modern chimney by building a fireplace with a tall, shallow firebox that was exhausted smoke from the building.
These days there are many types of modern fireplaces to choose from. Technology is advancing and creating unique fireplace designs with different heat sources. Sleek-looking linear fireplaces come in a variety of fuel types such as propane and natural gas with a clean design that doesn’t include a mantel. Linear fireplaces come in a variety of shapes and can be installed with two and even three sided configuration that is a stunning focal point to any room.
If a traditional wood-burning masonry fireplace is more your thing, then you’ll be pleased to know that they are still popular offering nice clean openings with or without glass enclosures with very large viewing areas. If your home has a rustic design then you might be better buying a masonry fireplace. An alternative is a pre-fab fireplace which is very different from a masonry fireplace which is manufactured with an insulated sheet metal shell and pre-cast firebrick linings. The airtight versions come with high temperature ceramic glass for safe viewing of the fire.
If you would like to use natural gas or propane gas as your heat source, Retrofitting an existing wood fireplace with a gas insert allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds allowing you to use natural gas as a heat source while maintaining the integrity of its original design.
Like every year we were very busy before the holidays. So if you weren’t able to book an appointment to repair or remodel your fireplace or have your chimney cleaned, we’ll be back soon. Give us a call and book your appointment in January 2019. We want you to have a safe holiday with your loved ones.
