Fireplace Fitter Hitchin Hertfordshire (SG4): Opening up an old fireplace or having a new one installed is a good way to add a touch of charm to any room of your house in Hitchin. As long as you have a ready source of timber or fuel, the addition of an open fire or wood burning stove for those cold winters' evenings can even prove more cost effective than a traditional central heating system. Combine a back boiler with your fireplace and you can enjoy supplies of endless hot water for even more savings.
There are a few things that you'll need to do to make certain you can safely install and use your new fireplace, before you begin prising away at a blocked up chimney. The building regulations, Part J for combustible appliances for example, which pertains to any work undertaken on flue linings, hearths, chimney breasts and fireplaces. Planning permission may also be needed before work begins if your home is listed or in a conservation area.
PROFESSIONAL OR DIY FIREPLACE INSTALLATION?
If you have the skills to do so, and are an enthusiastic and competent do-it-yourselfer you might be capable of doing some of the renovation work on an old or existing fireplace, but professional help may be needed if safety or structural problems arise. When you expose the old fireplace, you might be fortunate and find that to get a fire roaring once again, it needs nothing more than a good chimney sweep and a quick clean up of the hearth. What you will more likely discover is a pile of old, crumbling bricks that conceals issues such as a lintel that needs replacing or a blocked up chimney.
Using a professional fireplace fitter in Hitchin is normally recommended, because a fireplace that is improperly installed can cause respiratory health issues and a serious risk of fire. Airflow must be satisfactory in any room which has a fireplace; and it's a requirement in Part J of the Building Regulations that this is so. An accumulation of deadly carbon monoxide gas can be the result in a room where there is insufficient airflow, and death is possible where a fire is burning inefficiently.
To ensure adequate levels of oxygen are able to reach the fire at all times, and to safely get around any airflow problems, vents will need to be fitted around the room during the installation of a fireplace. Unused and blocked up chimney flues might also need to have air vents fitted because they can often trap moist air causing damp to build up inside the chimney.
BEFORE WORK BEGINS
It is amazing just how much grime and soot can build up inside an old fireplace and you will not know precisely what's there until you open it up. So that any carpets, furniture and rugs within an area do not get affected by the dirt and soot that is released during work by a fireplace installer, it is a good idea to remove them in advance. When it is only part of a bigger home refurbishment project, opening up an unused fireplace should be one of the first things that you do, due to the mess that's involved. The reasoning behind this is to avoid any staining damage to work that's already been finished.
STRUCTURAL & CONSTRUCTION WORK
The time will come to clean and sweep the hearth and chimney and work out what can be refurbished, as soon as the opening up of the fireplace has been completed. You now need to get in touch with your chimney sweep, if you've not already done this, to come and clean the old fireplace and chimney. As well as cleaning and sweeping your flue and chimney, they will also assess the condition of the flue liner and chimney and tell you about any part of the chimney structure and flue that needs replacing.
If you need to install a new flue liner or strengthen the chimney all Building Regulations must be followed to the letter. This work must be completed by a skilled tradesman who is acquainted with the Building Regs and good construction practices.
It is quite possible that a concrete or steel lintel will have to be installed, if the original fireplace is of a size that is larger than your needs. And following that, replacing or upgrading the hearth should be the next step in your fireplace installation project in Hitchin. You may find your existing hearth has been sunken into a void in the floor, but to abide by latest regulations it is required to be raised slightly above floor level. Ready-made solutions from granite, slate or marble are available on the market to accomplish this, or your fireplace builder in Hitchin might be able to offer a bespoke, custom-made hearth to match your room style.
FIREPLACE DESIGNS
A trip to a fireplace showroom or a browse online will reveal the alternatives available for the different fireplace designs and styles. It is possible that owing to your current chimney, flue and airflow to the room, that certain fireplace designs may not be suitable, and it's advisable to follow the the advice and recommendations of your fireplace installation company with respect to this.
The age of your property, and the style that you're trying to establish for your room, will all help you to decide on the type and design of fireplace that is most suitable for you. If you've got an attractive inglenook fireplace, a cast iron wood burner can look gorgeous in this surrounding, and has the added benefit of deflecting the heat into the room from the brick or stone walls surrounding the stove.
A wood-burning stove is also an effective choice if your home does not have a chimney breast. As a flue can be routed through an external wall and doesn't need a chimney structure, it's still quite possible to install and enjoy this style of fireplace.
ELECTRIC, OPEN, GAS, MULTI-FUEL OR WOOD FIREPLACE?
If your situation does not allow for a natural fireplace to be installed, what are the possible alternatives?
Gas Fireplaces - There are a variety of designs to complement any property in Hitchin, and they provide instantaneous heat which is more heat efficient than a multi-fuel stove or wood burner. Only authorised Gas Safe contractors are qualified to install these fires.
Wood Burning Stoves - These stoves come in modern or classic designs to match your home's decor, and they've become very popular in many Hitchin homes. A version with an integrated back boiler will supply extra heating by transferring the piping hot water to a radiator in a cold spot of your house.
Open Fireplaces - Being able to burn virtually any solid fuel on the market, the open fireplace can provide a flickering fire as a stunning centrepiece for a room or living area. In earlier times an open fire may have had the associations with being inefficient, draughty and smoky, but a skillfully fitted modern fireplace is a joy to sit in front of and recline in the warm glow it provides.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - Can be used with various different fuels, including coal, gas, wood or oil, to establish a great focal point in your home in Hitchin. One of the best known makes of multi-fuel stoves is the AGA range, and these products can provide not only affordable heat for the whole property, but also cooking and hot water.
Electric Fireplaces - Electric fireplaces can be fitted safely and easily by any competent individual and there are designs which are suitable for any room and home in Hitchin. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from the genuine thing with with the "real" looking feel of modern electric fires, and they can be set into a conventional fireplace when required.
Fireplace installers can be located in Hitchin itself, in these postcodes: SG4 0HP, SG4 0BJ, SG4 0DB, SG4 0DN, SG4 0QQ, SG4 0PQ, SG4 0DP, SG4 0FR, SG4 0PH, and SG4 0BZ, plus in neighbouring areas like Pegsdon, Walsworth, Weston, Pirton, Ickleford, Lilley, Ashbrook, St Ippolyts, Holwell, Offley, Lower Stondon, Little Wymondley, Gosmore, Kings Walden. Local Hitchin fireplace services will most likely have the dialling code 01462 and the postcode SG4.
Fireplace Inserts
Fireplace inserts have become a popular choice among homeowners in Hitchin who wish to upgrade their conventional fireplaces. By redirecting more heat into the room and minimizing heat loss, these inserts are designed to enhance fireplace efficiency. Alongside a safer and more secure experience, these inserts offer a simpler and more convenient way to enjoy the atmosphere of a fire, without the hassle and mess of old-fashioned wood-burning fireplaces.
Fireplace inserts are offered in an array of sizes and styles, including gas, electric and wood-burning models. Gas fireplace inserts are simple to use and require little upkeep, making them a good choice, while electric inserts offer convenience and flexibility with their remote control and adjustable settings. The authentic feel of a crackling fire and the aroma of burning wood is what makes wood-burning inserts ideal for property owners.
Besides their convenience and efficiency, fireplace inserts are also helpful to the environment. They decrease the amount of air pollution caused by conventional fireplaces by producing fewer emissions and burning fuel more efficiently.
Professional installation is important to guarantee a correct and safe installation of a fireplace insert. The benefits offered by fireplace inserts make them an excellent investment for householders looking to enhance the comfort, convenience, and value of their home. Various methods of venting may be required for different kinds of fireplace inserts, which is an important factor to consider.
Tips To Maintain Your Fireplace And Lower Your Heating Expenses
With concerns over the environment, the classic fireplace is missing some of its appeal, although it is still a favourite with many property owners in Hitchin. There's nothing like feeling the warmth of a fireplace throughout a cold winter's evening. Having an open fireplace has its perks but there are also a few drawbacks that could affect its usefulness. With energy costs soaring year on year, your fireplace must emit heat in a cost-effective way. When a fire is burning, it may possibly warm up those who are standing immediately in front of it, but it can actually pull warm air out of your room, making your heater work even more. If there's no fire, a damper ought to control the airflow. However, dampers have a very ineffective seal, so chilly air gets in, and warm air will go out.
What the majority of homeowners in Hitchin usually do not realise about their fireplace is that it does not necessarily do exactly what they believe it is doing. Instead of keeping the cost of heating down, it could actually do the complete opposite if one is not careful. There's a simple way to take your inefficient fireplace, and remake it into a heat producing system that your budget will love. There happen to be four simple things that you could do to make your fireplace into a cost-effective heat resource. You will recognize that these tips will help make your fireplace generate quality heat and your current energy bill smaller.
The initial step is to remove your current damper and change it for a top sealing damper. This kind of damper is located towards the top of your chimney and helps to stop rain and snow from entering. It does a superb job of keeping warm air in the house during winter months and cool air from getting out in the summer months. It's not that difficult to fit and may also be easily bought from a fireplace supplier or on the internet. Another thing you can do is install a fire-back in the back of your fireplace. This is a cast iron plate that's intended to add to the room decor, while saving the back wall from damage by the heat. The fire-back also soaks up heat right from the fire and returns it back into the room, making the fireplace more efficient.
Another method is to get a fireplace heater/fan, which draws in air in a room and warms it up. These devices are put in place as closed systems to make sure they don't emit any smoke, but are effective in keeping your house warm. Last but not least, you may put in glass doors which will likely be the most expensive. If you do a bit of homework, you can find glass doors at a good price and install them on your own. These glass doors help to prevent the heat from leaking out and also it keeps pets and children from getting burned.
All these ideas are simple to do, and the products can be easily found online. Look after your fireplace and see your energy bills drop.
Chimney Sweeping Hitchin
The regular sweeping of your chimney is essential if you have a log burning stove or an open fire in your home in Hitchin. Chimneys need to be swept and cleaned at least once per year, if not more.
To be confident that the job is being done correctly, it's always a wise idea to call in a specialist Hitchin chimney sweep. An expert chimney sweep won't only clean your chimney but additionally keep an eye out for safety issues.
Routine sweeping helps prevent a build-up of ash and soot, a common cause of chimney fires. Blocked chimneys can also cause another dangerous situation by drawing carbon monoxide gas back into your property.
In the unlikely event that any damages or accidents occur while you're having your chimney swept, ensure your chosen Hitchin chimney sweep has public liability cover. To obtain a price for chimney sweeping in Hitchin GO HERE.
Natural Stone Fireplaces Hitchin
For that really spectacular look why don't you consider bringing the outdoors inside with a stone fireplace? It's possible that you already have a natural stone feature on your property's exterior, such as a stone facade or boundary wall. These external features could be coordinated with your fireplace indoors.
It's possible to create a stone fireplace by using either full-depth stone or a thinner stone cladding, subject to your taste and spending budget. There are also a number of different kinds of stone which you can employ to build a fireplace, including: sandstone, limestone, quartz, marble, slate or granite.
How your completed fireplace looks, will be affected by the method of building (dry stone or mortar jointed), the methodology used by the stonemason or craftsman who builds it and the kind of stone used. Have a browse around the internet and pick out some designs that you like, and show these to your fireplace installer before they make a start.
There's little doubt that stone fireplaces are typically more suitable for older buildings, and may be a bit too striking and overwhelming for a more modern dwelling. But the choice, as they say, is up to you.
Brick Fireplaces
Brick fireplaces have been a common feature in homes for centuries, and they continue to be a beloved interior design element today. A brick fireplace can add character, warmth, and a little rustic charm to any room. Here are a few things to consider if you're thinking about adding a brick fireplace to your property in Hitchin.
First and foremost, you'll need to choose the design of fireplace you prefer. Classic brick fireplaces commonly feature a straightforward design with a mantel and hearth. Nevertheless, you could also go with a more contemporary design with clean lines and a sleek finish.
Brick fireplaces can be constructed using different types of bricks. You can pick from a variety of brick textures and colours to match the design of your property. It is also a good idea to add additional elements such as stone, wood or tile to complement the brickwork.
Finally, consider the practical side of a brick fireplace. Make certain that your fireplace is correctly vented and that you've got a functioning chimney. If you intend to use the fireplace for heating, think about installing a fireplace insert or glass doors to increase safety and efficiency.
Overall, a brick fireplace can be an incredible addition to your home in Hitchin, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional warmth. With a little consideration and planning, you can create a functional and attractive brick fireplace that will be a focal point in your home for many years to come.
Hitchin Fireplace Related Tasks
Your local fireplace company can perform a wide array of tasks including designer fireplace installation, built-in electric fires, elm fireplaces Hitchin, fireplace cleaning, traditional fireplaces Hitchin, fireplace suites, wood burning fireplace installation, chimney lining, gas fireplaces, fireplace packages, chimney strengthening Hitchin, tiled fireplaces Hitchin, limestone fireplace Hitchin, oak beam fireplaces, fireplacequotations, marble fireplace surrounds, period fireplaces, inset stoves, double-sided stoves Hitchin, flue lining installation, brick fireplace installation, inglenook fireplace installation, fireplaces, contemporary fireplaces Hitchin, fireplace services Hitchin, corner fireplaces, Victorian fireplace installations Hitchin, the installation of modern fireplaces, freestanding stoves, chimney cowl installation, chimney repairs Hitchin, fireplace installation, outdoor fireplaces Hitchin, hearth fireplaces, designer fireplaces, and more. You can maybe go to this QUOTE FORM and fill in your details, if you have other Hitchin fireplace requirements that you are looking for but cannot see here.
Fireplace Installers Near Hitchin
Also find: Little Wymondley fireplace installers, Ashbrook fireplace installers, Offley fireplace installers, Lower Stondon fireplace installers, Weston fireplace installers, Holwell fireplace installers, Lilley fireplace installers, Pegsdon fireplace installers, Kings Walden fireplace installers, Walsworth fireplace installers, Ickleford fireplace installers, Gosmore fireplace installers, St Ippolyts fireplace installers, Pirton fireplace installers and more. Most of these villages and towns are catered for by people who install fireplaces. Possessing the necessary experience and know-how, these skilled tradespeople can successfully install fireplaces in your home. The atmosphere, comfort and warmth of a fireplace in their homes are made possible for residents through the support of these dedicated specialists. By going here, local householders can get fireplace installation quotes.
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