When updating an existing fireplace, plenty of homeowners are drawn to a gas fireplace insert. They offer a convenient and efficient alternative to wood burning units. Installation is an important factor in your choice though, since you’re working with what you have.
That’s where a trained professional is indispensable. When shopping for gas fireplace inserts, it’s important to consult with a qualified installer. That way you can ensure the unit that you’re looking at is well suited for your home and that the entire system will be safe and efficient.
Your chimney will likely need to be lined or altered to fit a natural gas or propane venting system. Flue flashing can be attached to the chimney cap and sealed well. Then the vent pipes will run from the insert up to the flashing. Working high up on a roof and with your chimney is a job best left to a professional. While up there they can inspect the condition of your chimney and recommend any repairs that are necessary.
The front or face of your insert should fit into the existing front, but a surround will be used to hide any gap and smooth out the finished look. In this way a gas fireplace insert will become part of the existing hearth, providing you with a comfortable fire almost instantly within your traditional mantel and fireplace set up. It will create the ultimate focal point – simple to use with classic beauty.
A gas line will also need to be run into the existing fireplace from the main valve. This can be fairly complicated and involves drilling through the stone and installing the proper connections. A gas fitter will have to at least inspect the fittings in order for the installation to meet building codes and an expert in masonry fireplaces should be consulted if any drilling is required. Be sure that the line and connections used are suitable for the insert model you have purchased.
Since natural gas and propane are potentially dangerous substances when not handled properly, professional technicians go through rigorous testing in order to achieve certification. And since you want your gas fireplace insert to work well and operate safely every time, the training and experience of a qualified gas insert installer makes them the best candidate for your project.
Your upgraded fireplace will be a smart addition to your home, convenient to use and easy to maintain. Fine fireplace retailers that offer professional installation will also offer regular service and maintenance options to keep your insert running well. Invest in a home improvement project that will improve your quality of life and deliver dependable warmth all season long.
Fireplace Village is the only full service hearth retailer in New England. Fireplace Village installs, services and cleans all of the hearth products that we sell. We sell hearth products from all of the major manufacturers including, Heat & Glo, Hearthstone, Jotul, Majestic, Napoleon and Vermont Castings. Fireplace Village also provides safety inspection and cleaning service for gas fireplaces and stoves, wood stoves, pellet stoves and chimneys.
