Fireplace Fitter Portsmouth Hampshire (PO1): A good way to add a bit of character, charm and a welcoming feel to any house in Portsmouth, is to re-open an old fireplace to put in a multi-fuel, wood burner or open fire. If you combine your new fireplace with a back boiler, not only can you enjoy the ambience and warmth of an open fire on those cold winter evenings, you'll also be supplied with plenty of boiling hot water.
There are a few important considerations you must bear in mind if you're to end up with an efficient and safe fireplace, before you begin knocking down the walls of a blocked up fireplace. Work conducted on the chimney breasts, flue linings, fireplaces and hearths of any heat producing appliances, must follow Part J of the UK Building Regulations. If your property is a listed building you will also have to find out if planning permission is required from the local council before any work can begin.
PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION OR DIY?
If you are a keen do-it-yourselfer it may be possible to restore a blocked or bricked-up fireplace, however the probability of experiencing structural issues in the majority of cases is unfortunately high. If you are lucky when you open up a blocked up fireplace you might find a decent hearth, chimney breast and lintel that requires nothing other than the services and advice of a chimney sweep to get it ready for use. It is much more likely however, that you'll reveal a blocked flue and an expanse of old brickwork that needs to be to be reinforced structurally to ensure that it's safe.
A wrongly installed fireplace can cause severe respiratory health problems and fire risk and, as such, should only be fitted by a professional fireplace installer in Portsmouth with the experience and knowledge to do the work safely. A major factor of the Building Regulations for fireplaces is that sufficient oxygen is available for the fire to burn safely and efficiently. Dangerous carbon monoxide can accumulate from an inefficiently burning fire in a poorly ventilated space.
It may be necessary to install airflow vents in floors and walls to allow the fire to get ample oxygen to burn safely and effectively at all times. Vents may also have to be installed in blocked or unused chimney flues which can sometimes cause damp patches and stains to to a chimney breast, because of trapped condensing air.
BEFORE WORK STARTS
When you're re-opening an unused fireplace for a restoration project, you will probably be amazed at the amount of soot and dirt that has piled up in your old chimney. So that any rugs, furniture and carpets inside an area do not get impacted by the dirt and soot that is emitted during the fireplace installation works, it's strongly recommended that you have them removed beforehand. Because of the mess that is involved, if your fireplace installation is merely a part of a bigger home restoration project, it should be one of the very first tasks to be worked on after the room has been taken back to bare walls and floors in preparation. If other renovation work has recently been completed, this might get ruined by soot and other chimney related dust.
CONSTRUCTION AND STRUCTURAL WORK
The time will come to sweep and clean the hearth and chimney and work out what can and cannot be refurbished, as soon as the opening up of the fireplace has been accomplished. You now need to get in touch with your chimney sweep, if you haven't already done this, to come and clean the old fireplace and chimney. After sweeping, they will be able to offer guidance and advice on what kind of state your chimney structure and flue is in, and let you know if there are elements that need to be repaired.
It could be essential to fit a new flue lining to observe the UK Building Regulations, and construction might also be required to strengthen the original chimney and breast. This work must be accomplished by a skilled craftsman who is familiar with the appropriate Building Regulations and good working practices.
If it is necessary to modify the width of opening of your original fireplace to something smaller and more suitable for your design, a supporting lintel should be put in. Once this stage of the project has been accomplished, the updating or renovation of the hearth can be undertaken. The circumstances with hearths has somewhat changed through the years, and while in past times they were quite often set into floor voids, they now must be raised above floor level if the current UK Building Regulations are to be followed. You can get bespoke options to fit pretty much any size and design of fireplace, or you can select from a variety of common size and shape hearths to fit in with your decor.
FIREPLACE STYLE
If you go to a fireplace showroom you'll find that you have lots of choice with a wide array of different choices available to you. It's possible that owing to your existing flue, chimney and airflow to the room, that some fireplaces might not be appropriate, therefore it's advisable to follow the the recommendations and advice of the fireplace installer with respect to this.
A wood burning or multi-fuel stove may be perfect for some rooms and properties in Portsmouth, while an open fireplace will be more suitable for others. For example, the most perfect backdrop to a classic iron wood-burner stove is an inglenook fireplace, which not only emphasises its character and charm but is also effective in redirecting any heat that is produced back into the room.
You've still got possibilities for a feature fireplace by putting in a wood burning or multi fuel stove, even if your Portsmouth property hasn't got a chimney breast. Provided that you have an outside wall through which a flue from the stove can be routed, you don't need a chimney structure in place to be able to benefit from that "real" fire experience.
MULTI-FUEL, GAS, WOOD, OPEN OR ELECTRIC FIREPLACE?
If this sort of fireplace is not possible within your Portsmouth property, what other options are available?
Multi-Fuel Stoves - To establish an excellent focal point in your home in Portsmouth, these can be used with a number of different fuels, such as oil, smokeless coal, gas or wood. Some styles, like the AGA range, are also suitable for cooking, providing hot water and heating your entire property.
Electric Fireplaces - An obvious choice for many homeowners in Portsmouth, these fires can be put in by virtually any competent person, quickly and safely. It can be difficult to tell one from the real thing with with the "real" looking feel of some electric fires, and they can readily be installed into a traditional fireplace when that is what's required.
Open Fireplaces - A crackling fire is a focus for any room in your home and it has the capacity to burn virtually any solid fuel that you can purchase. A professionally installed modern open fire will be no comparison to the old style smoky fireplace that was perhaps bricked up by previous owners, and its glowing charm is a welcome addition to any home in Portsmouth.
Wood Burning Stoves - An array of styles to suit any kind of home in Portsmouth, and can even be a free standing feature. If used in tandem with a back boiler they can provide piping hot water to heat radiators or for use in your house.
Gas Fireplaces - Gas fireplaces are available in a range of designs to suit any home and are generally more efficient (thermally) than open fireplaces. Must be professionally maintained and installed by Gas Safe registered (previously CORGI registered) engineer.
Fireplace fitters can be obtained in Portsmouth itself, in these nearby postcodes: PO1 2AE, PO1 1QA, PO1 1XQ, PO1 1QG, PO1 1QE, PO1 1DU, PO1 1JP, PO1 1AF, PO1 2DN, and PO1 1BG, and in surrounding locations like Copnor, Eastney, Milton, Alverstoke, Hilsea, Fratton, Lee on the Solent, Cosham, Hayling Island, Widley. It is likely that any fireplace builders from the Portsmouth area will have the postcode PO1 and the telephone dialling code 023. Checking that this is so will make certain that you're hiring a locally based fireplace installer. Portsmouth people can enjoy the benefits of these fireplace services.
Improve the Cost-Efficiency of Your Fireplace
With all of the current environmental issues, the open fireplace has lost some of its glamour, however it still is a favourite feature for many in Portsmouth. The natural warmth of an open fireplace triggers special remembrances for those who've got them. There are lots of perks and benefits to having a fireplace however there are also a few negative aspects that may need to be taken care of. With energy costs increasing annually, your fireplace needs to emit heat in a very cost-effective way. When you've got a fire going in the fireplace, it can actually take away warm air out from the room, making your heater work harder. In case you don't have a fire lit, the damper is supposed to keep heat in. Often times though, fireplace dampers are renowned for being inefficient in keeping warm air in the house and cold air out.
Many property owners in Portsmouth who have fireplaces don't understand how it can affect the cost of heating. Instead of conserving resources, and heating costs, it's typically adding 100s of pounds of energy expense. Nevertheless, there are several procedures that you can follow that can turn your budget smashing fireplace into something a touch more efficient. There happen to be four simple steps that you can take to turn your fireplace into the cost-effective heat sourse you're searching for. These will certainly make your current fireplace a lot more efficient, and lower your energy bills.
The first point is to change your fireplace damper with a top sealing damper. This kind of damper is installed at the top of the chimney, and acts like a storm door. It does a good job of preserving warm air in the home during winter months and cool air from escaping in the summertime. It isn't very hard to install and may also be easily bought on the web. An additional thing you can do is position a fire-back in the back of your fireplace. This is a cast iron plate which is created to add to the room decor, while saving the back wall from being damaged due to the fires. The fire-back also takes up heat right from the fire and radiates it back into the room, making your fireplace more effective.
The next thing that is going to help is a fireplace heater/fan, which heats the room air that's being circulated through an internal chamber, and blows it back inside the room. These heating devices are sealed systems, hence no smoke is emitted, and they can really make a difference in the temperature of your home. The last and final thing you're able to do is to fix glass doors, which might be a bit on the expensive side. If you do your homework, you can definitely get a great deal on glass doors and they're not too difficult to install yourself. These doors help to prevent the heat from leaking out and additionally it keeps pets and children from being burnt.
These suggestions are not terribly difficult to do and you can buy everything you need online. Take care of your fireplace and observe your energy costs fall.
Fireplace Inserts Portsmouth
The installation of fireplace inserts is a popular option for householders in Portsmouth looking to upgrade their traditional fireplaces. By redirecting more heat into the room and minimizing heat loss, these inserts are designed to enhance fireplace efficiency. These inserts offer a more practical and safe way to experience the allure of a fire, without the fuss and untidiness associated with conventional wood-burning fireplaces.
There is an extensive range of styles and sizes to choose from for fireplace inserts, including electric, gas and wood-burning models. Gas fireplace inserts are simple to use and require little upkeep, making them a good choice, while electric inserts offer flexibility and convenience with their remote control and adjustable settings. Wood-burning inserts are ideal for property owners who prefer the authentic experience of a crackling fire and the scent of burning wood.
Fireplace inserts not only provide efficiency and convenience but are also good for the environment. Efficient fuel burning and fewer emissions production are used to decrease the amount of air pollution caused by conventional fireplaces.
If you're considering a fireplace insert, it's important to have it professionally installed to ensure it's done correctly and safely. Offering a range of benefits, fireplace inserts are a worthwhile investment for any homeowner seeking to improve the comfort, convenience, and value of their home. Property owners should consult with a professional to determine the best venting system for their specific fireplace insert, as well as to ensure proper installation and safety.
Chimney Cowls Portsmouth
To improve draft and stop smoke from backing up your chimney you can install a chimney cowl, which is a hood-shaped cover which fits over the chimney pot. It is usually made from galvanised iron and designed to stop the wind blowing smoke down the chimney. To enjoy the many benefits of a fireplace, it's recommended that you install a cowl on your chimney.
There are several kinds of chimney cowls available. There are pot hanging cowls that can be installed without removing the chimney pot. They hook up with the flue liner via 3 straps, which secure the cowl in place. Another style of cowl is a weathering cap, which is attached to the end of the flue. It is larger than the chimney pot, which ensures that it stays in place.
You can also find chimney cowls made from run-of-the-mill objects, such as a stainless steel colander or steel bucket. Chicken mesh can also be used to make a fairly effective cowl. Clay flower pots also make great chimney cowls. These products can be purchased online or at a local hardware store.
Chimney cowls are a simple way to prevent birds building nests in your chimney in Portsmouth. They are inexpensive and easy to install. You should make certain you have clear access to the space above the chimney to fit one effectively. It can also prevent dirt and debris from accumulating inside your chimney. Ask your local fireplace installer in Portsmouth if they can fit a suitable chimney cowl for you.
Flues
Installed to improve the safety and efficiency of your chimney system, a flue liner (or chimney liner) is essential and should never be overlooked in any circumstances. Crafted from metal, ceramic material or clay, flue liners are ducts that are fitted to the inside of chimneys to carry smoke and fumes outside. Some chimneys in older properties in Portsmouth may not even have a flue liner, or if the existing liner is defective, might have to be re-lined.
The burning of fires creates dangerous gases which can cause severe harm to your chimney's flue. A great time to check for potential problems and damage is whilst your chimney is being swept and cleaned - so ask your sweep to do this for you. You need to stop those dangerous gases from seeping into your home's living space, which is what can occur when a flue lining is faulty. Extreme heat can also be allowed to penetrate into the structure of the chimney, creating the possibility of fires.
Fireplace Installers Near Portsmouth
Also find: Milton fireplace installers, Fratton fireplace installers, Cosham fireplace installers, Lee on the Solent fireplace installers, Copnor fireplace installers, Widley fireplace installers, Alverstoke fireplace installers, Hilsea fireplace installers, Eastney fireplace installers, Hayling Island fireplace installers and more. These and other places are served by fireplace fitters and related tradespeople. With the requisite experience and know-how, these versatile tradesmen are adept at adeptly installing fireplaces in your property. The assistance of these dedicated experts allows residents to enjoy the comfort, warmth, and inviting atmosphere of a fireplace in their homes. By simply clicking here, local homeowners can obtain fireplace installation price quotes. Kick-start your fireplace installation today, without delay!
Portsmouth Fireplace Related Tasks
Your local fireplace fitter can carry out a whole medley of services and tasks including traditional fireplaces, fireplace repairs, fireplace surrounds, Regency fireplaces, electric fire baskets, fireplace suites, the installation of modern fireplaces, Victorian fireplace installation, bespoke fireplaces, fireplace fitting, contemporary fireplaces in Portsmouth, fireplace refurbishment, hearth fireplaces, outdoor fireplace installations, carbon monoxide detector installation, classic fireplaces in Portsmouth, multifuel & wood burning stoves in Portsmouth, fireplace rates, double-sided stove installations in Portsmouth, fireplace packages, gas stoves, reclaimed fireplaces in Portsmouth, fireplace hearths, fire grate conversions, inset stove installation, outdoor fireplaces, marble fireplace installations, designer fireplaces, electric fireplaces, period fireplaces, and more. Portsmouth professionals will provide a complete list of fireplace sevices when requested. If there happen to be other Portsmouth fireplace requirements that you want but cannot see here, you should give them a mention on the QUOTE FORM provided.
More Portsmouth Tradespeople: Ok, so you're presently trying to find fireplace fitters in Portsmouth, but you could also require a stonemason in Portsmouth, a roofer in Portsmouth, stone cleaning in Portsmouth, a flooring company in Portsmouth, a painter/decorator in Portsmouth, a handyperson in Portsmouth, a blacksmith in Portsmouth, a chimney sweep in Portsmouth, a building contractor in Portsmouth, a heating engineer in Portsmouth, a damp proofing specialist in Portsmouth, an electrician in Portsmouth, waste removal in Portsmouth, SKIP HIRE in Portsmouth, a carpenter and joiner in Portsmouth, a plasterer in Portsmouth, a bricklayer in Portsmouth, jet washing in Portsmouth, when undertaking any home improvement project in Portsmouth, Hampshire.
More: Open Fireplaces, Bespoke Fireplaces, Open Fireplaces, Gas Fireplaces, Bespoke Fireplaces, Log Burners, Fireplaces, Fireplace Fitters, Cheap Fireplaces, Gas Fireplaces, Log Burner Installation, Fireplace Installers, Fireplace Installation, Fireplace Replacement, Stone Fireplaces, Cheap Fireplaces, Fireplace Replacement, Fireplace Installation, Electric Fireplaces, Open Fireplaces, Open Fireplaces, Fireplace Surrounds, Electric Fireplaces, Fireplace Installation, Log Burners, Stone Fireplaces, Open Fireplaces, Log Burners, Log Burners, Brick Fireplaces.
Fireplace Installation Services Portsmouth - Fireplace Installation Quotes Portsmouth - Fireplace Fitter Portsmouth - Fireplace Fitters Portsmouth - Residential Fireplaces Portsmouth - Log Burner Fireplaces Portsmouth - Fireplace Designs Portsmouth - Fireplace Portsmouth - Fireplace Installers Portsmouth