Shopping Guides Fireplaces

Date Published:

12/06/2008

Credit: Fireplacesuk.org.uk

Unfortunately a fireplace isn't all about effortless goodlooks. Remember that in addition to a decorative mantel, you will need a hearth, a fireback, a fire basket or grate (and possibly inner slips) to make it fit for use in your fireplace opening.

Many fireplace installers deal exclusively in period fireplaces (See Directory). Check that the retailer recommends a fitter if they cannot provide one.

Before shopping for a fireplace you need to know what type of fuel you are going to burn or whether you will be opting for gas or electric. It is helpful to show measurements and photographs of the space for which the fireplace is intended along with any mood boards you may have. If you are going for repro ensure your style of fireplace fits the era that your interior subscribes to.

Credit: Fireplacesuk.org.uk

Original fireplaces undoubtedly imbue a home with a greater sense of authenticity, and being designed to cope with solid fuels find no problem with coal or wood. An original fireplace is also likely to be a unique item as it will possibly have been created before the great mass production drives of the industrial revolution.

Reproduction fireplaces, however, do have their advantages. For a start they're easier to get hold of, they're cheaper, and customer demand has now ensured that the quality of reproduction is better than it has ever been. They're also less likely to suddenly succumb to years of extreme heat and crack or split.

Recently a great number of more contemporary designs have been unleashed on the market, making use of popular materials like stone, glass and metal to great effect.