Fireplace Fitter Totton Hampshire (SO40): If you're sick and tired of soaring energy costs and want to find an alternative method for heating your house in Totton, why not open up that unused fireplace and install an economical open, multi-fuel or wood burning fire? Adding a wood burning stove or open fire for those cold winter evenings can even prove less expensive than a conventional central heating system, as long as you've got a ready source of wood. If used in combination with a back boiler it can supply you with plentiful hot water at the same time.
There are a few crucial considerations you must think of before you start any work, in order to establish an efficient, attractive and safe fireplace in your house. All work carried out must adhere to Part J of the UK's Building Regulations, which addresses the installation and construction of flue linings, chimney breasts, fireplaces and hearths of any combustible appliance. For a fireplace installation in a listed building, or one that sits in an official conservation area, you will need to find out from your local council if planning permission is required.
PROFESSIONAL FIREPLACE INSTALLATION OR DIY?
When renovating an old blocked up fireplace, there's a fair probability of encountering structural issues, so even if you're a keen do-it-yourselfer you could easily struggle with this sort of work. You may be fortunate when revealing your old fireplace and find you need little more than a good chimney sweep and a quick clean out of the hearth to get a fire roaring. However, a flue that is blocked and old brickwork that needs to be structurally reinforced is what you're more likely to find.
It's usually best to take comfort from the experience and know-how of a professional fireplace fitter in Totton, due to the severe fire and health risks associated with a poorly fitted or refurbished fireplace. Airflow must be adequate in any room which has a fireplace; in fact it's a key requirement of Part J of the Building Regulations that this is the case. Deadly carbon monoxide fumes can accumulate from a fire burning inefficiently in a poorly ventilated space.
To ensure suitable oxygen levels reach the fire, and to effectively get around any airflow issues, vents will be installed around the room during a fireplace installation. To improve airflow in unused or blocked chimney flues, your fireplace installation team might also have to fit flue vents to stop moist, condensed air becoming trapped and producing staining and damp spots.
BEFORE WORK COMMENCES
Chimney breasts are renowned for the huge amount of grime and soot that can pile up inside them, therefore when you set out to open up an unused fireplace you can expect it to be a pretty messy affair. It is advisable to remove any rugs, carpets and furniture from a room where you are planning to open up an old fireplace, to prevent them being affected by soot, dust and grime that may be stirred up during the fireplace installation and chimney cleaning work. When it's just a part of a larger refurbishment project, the opening up of an unused fireplace ought to be one of the very first tasks that you tackle, because of the mess that's involved. This prevents any staining damage to any renovated work you may have already finished.
CONSTRUCTION & STRUCTURAL WORK
Once you've opened up your old fireplace you'll have a better idea of the work that is required, and also be able to thoroughly sweep the chimney and clean any hearth that remains in place. If you have not already done so, you can now make contact with your local Totton chimney sweep. As well as sweeping and cleaning the flue and chimney, they will also consider the condition of the chimney and flu liner and inform you whether any section of the flue and chimney structure needs to be replaced.
It might be essential to install a new flue lining to observe the current Building Regulations, and construction might also be needed to reinforce the existing chimney and chimney breast. This is not going to be the type of work that you can do yourself, therefore you'll want to hire a competent builder who has experience in good working practices and is familiar with the Building Regulations.
It's entirely possible that a supporting concrete lintel will have to be installed, if the dimensions of the original fireplace is bigger than your requirements. When your lintel is safely in place you can now press on with the updating, installation and renovation of the fireplace's hearth. The situation with hearths has changed through the years, and while in the old days hearths were typically sunk into floor voids, they must now be laid above floor level if the current regulations are to be followed. To achieve this, there are pre-made options made from marble, stone or concrete, or you might choose a custom-built, bespoke hearth to complement the style of your room, which your fireplace builder in Totton should be happy to help with.
FIREPLACE DESIGNS AND STYLES
Visiting a nearby fireplace outlet or browsing on the net will give you a notion of the wide array of different styles of fireplace for your home. Every fireplace may not be appropriate for your existing flue and chimney and it is sensible to accept any help and advice from your installation team in relation to your specific circumstances.
An open fireplace might be suitable for some rooms and dwellings in Totton, whilst a wood burning or multi-fuel stove will be a better choice for others. As an example, an attractive inglenook fireplace can be a wonderful backdrop for a classic cast iron wood burning stove, highlighting its charm and deflecting heat back into the room.
A cast iron wood burner is also a good option if your Totton home does not have a chimney breast. This kind of fireplace can be installed with a stainless steel flue that is taken through an outside wall and doesn't need a chimney, to be installed safely.
OPEN, WOOD, MULTI-FUEL, GAS OR ELECTRIC FIREPLACE?
Who can deny that they enjoy the flickering of an open fireplace on a dark evening, however if your situation doesn't allow for this, what other options are on offer?
Electric Fireplaces - Simple installation and a diverse choice of styles make electric fireplaces the obvious choice for Totton properties that don't have a chimney. Modern electric fires can deliver authentic looking flame effects and and sometimes even the crackling sound of wood to imitate a real open fire when inset into a traditional fireplace.
Multi-Fuel Stoves - To introduce a stunning centerpiece in your living space, these can be used with a variety of fuels, such as oil, wood, smokeless coal or gas. If you go for a multi-fuel stove from the AGA range for example, you can get hot water, do cooking, and when plumbed into your radiators or central heating system, provide heat for the whole house.
Wood Burning Stoves - These have become "the in thing" in many properties in Totton, and can have classic or modern design to complement your decor. They are able to provide hot water for radiators or for use around the home, if used in conjunction with a back boiler.
Gas Fireplaces - More thermally efficient than wood burner stoves, gas fireplaces come in an array of styles to complement your home in Totton. Any gas fire put into your Totton home must be installed and maintained by a Gas Safe technician.
Open Fireplaces - Provides a focal point for a room and can use an assortment of solid fuels. Being far from the smoky fireplaces of bygone days, a professionally fitted open fire provides a cosy and warm atmosphere in any Totton property.
You should be able to locate fireplace installers in Totton, and neighbouring areas such as: Hammonds Green, Pooksgreen, Eling, London Minstead, Cadnam, Redbridge, Winsor, Copythorne, Hill Street, West Totton, Woodlands, Millbrook, Testwood, Hounsdown, Totton and Eling, Bartley, Ashurst Bridge, Minstead, Calmore, Hillyfields, Colbury. Postcode areas like SO40 0DL, SO40 2QL, SO40 3HF, SO40 0FW, SO40 0FP, SO40 3GX, SO40 3DW, SO40 3DJ, SO40 3BH, and SO40 0BD are also covered. If they have the postcode SO40 and the phone code 023, it's probable that they come from Totton or someplace close by.
Stone Fireplaces Totton
For that really spectacular look why not consider bringing the outside in with a natural stone fireplace? Perhaps your house has already got some external stone features, a stone boundary wall or facade for example. This could be a simple way to complement those outdoor features inside your property.
Depending on your budget and taste, you can build a natural stone fireplace with either full-depth stone or stone cladding. The kinds of natural stone that can be used are numerous. Select from sandstone, quartz, granite, limestone, marble or slate.
Your new fireplace's appearance will depend on the individuality of the tradesperson or stonemason who builds it, the building method (mortar built or dry stone) and the sort of stone that is used. Pick a design that you would like to end up with, and show the fireplace builder some photographs before they begin the job.
There is little doubt that natural stone fireplaces are normally more suitable for older properties, and can be somewhat too striking and overwhelming for a modern dwelling. However the choice, as they say, is yours to make.
Fireplace Inserts
Upgrading traditional fireplaces with fireplace inserts is a sought-after option among property owners in Totton. The objective of these inserts is to amplify fireplace efficiency by decreasing heat loss and directing more heat into the room. By eliminating the mess and inconvenience of old-fashioned wood-burning fireplaces, these inserts provide a safer and more convenient way to relish the appeal of a fire.
Ranging from gas to electric and wood-burning models, there is a diverse selection of sizes and styles available for fireplace inserts. Opting for gas fireplace inserts provides a hassle-free and low-maintenance choice, while electric inserts offer convenience and adaptability with their adjustable settings and remote control. For property owners seeking an authentic crackling fire experience and the scent of burning wood, wood-burning inserts are the perfect option.
Along with their convenience and efficiency, fireplace inserts are designed to be good for the environment. By burning fuel more efficiently and producing fewer emissions, they decrease the amount of air pollution caused by traditional fireplaces.
For a safe and correct installation of a fireplace insert, it is important to have it professionally installed. Fireplace inserts are a wise investment for property owners looking to increase the convenience, comfort, and value of their home, thanks to their numerous benefits. Various venting options may be required for different types of fireplace inserts, which is an important factor to consider. To ensure proper installation, safety, and the best venting option for their specific fireplace insert, householders in Totton should seek advice from a professional.
The Best Way To Retain Your Open Fireplace And Lower Your Heating Bills
With concerns over the environment, the classic fireplace has lost some of its charm, although it is still a favourite for many householders in Totton. Sitting near the comfort of an open fireplace, brings back many cherished memories for lots of folks. Having an open fireplace has its many perks and benefits but there are some drawbacks which could affect its performance. With energy costs soaring year after year, your fireplace must emit heat in a very cost-effective way. When you've got a fire roaring in the fireplace, it can literally remove warm air out of the room, making your heater work harder. The hearth damper is supposed to prevent cold air from coming in to your home when you haven't got a fire in the fireplace. Often times though, fireplace dampers can often be inefficient in keeping warm air in the home and cold air out.
What many homeowners in Totton usually do not realise about their fireplace is that it doesn't necessarily do what they believe it's doing. Instead of warming a residence naturally, a fireplace can in fact add hundreds of pounds to the cost of your heating. However, there are some techniques that you can do that can easily turn your budget smashing fireplace into something a lot more efficient. There are at least four basic things that you could certainly do to improve your fireplace. Each of these is going to make your fireplace very cost effective and very efficient.
Step one is to take away your existing fireplace damper and replace it with a new top sealing damper. This kind of damper is positioned at the top of your chimney and helps to stop rain and snow from entering. It will keep the inside air from coming out, and the outside air from entering, and works in hot weather or cold. This does not take a lot of time to fit and you can acquire one online. A second thing you're able to do is to fit a fire-back at the rear of your fireplace. A fire-back is constructed of cast iron and it really is meant to shield the back wall from fire damage, while making your fireplace look classy. The fire-back takes the heat from a fire, and sends it back towards the room, enhancing the overall performance of the fireplace.
Another method is to buy a fireplace heater/fan, which draws air into the room and warms it up. These heaters do not produce any smoke and should be extremely successful in keeping your family home warm. The final thing that can be done is to fix glass doors, which may be the most expensive option. If you do some groundwork, you should be able to get an excellent deal on glass doors and they are not that challenging to fit yourself. These glass doors help to stop the heat from escaping and additionally it keeps children and pets from getting burned.
The advice we've just given is not that tricky to implement, and all of the products can be readily purchased online, or from your local stockist. Try your very best to keep your fireplace efficient and watch your heating bill go down.
Brick Fireplaces
Brick fireplaces have for centuries been a staple in interior design. They provide charm, warmth and character to any room. Whilst traditional brick fireplaces were mainly used for the purpose of heating, they've been reinvented as a statement piece in contemporary homes. The following are some things to take into account if you're considering a brick fireplace for your home in Totton.
First of all, choose the style of brick fireplace you prefer. You can go for a classic style with a mantel and hearth, or a modern style with a minimalist design and sleek lines. A brick fireplace can be a statement piece, so think carefully about the size and location of your fireplace. A larger fireplace can provide an impressive centerpiece in a room, whereas a smaller fireplace can provide an inviting nook.
Brick fireplaces can be constructed using different types of brick. You can select from a variety of brick colours and textures to match the design of your property. It is also a good idea to add extra elements such as wood, stone or tile to complement the brick.
Lastly, consider the functional elements of a brick fireplace. Make sure that your fireplace is properly vented and that you've got a fully functioning chimney. If you want to use the fireplace for heat, think about the addition of glass doors or a fireplace insert to increase its safety and efficiency.
Overall, a brick fireplace can be a marvelous addition to your property in Totton, providing both functional warmth and aesthetic appeal. With a little consideration and planning, you can create eye-catching and functional brick fireplace that will be a centerpiece of your home for many years to come.
Chimney Repair
Maintaining an efficient and safe fireplace or heating system requires giving due attention to chimney repair. As time goes by, chimneys can experience wear and tear, leading to problems like blockages, leaks or cracks. Averting potential threats, including fire and exposure to carbon monoxide, is dependent on swift repairs. In Totton, professional chimney repair specialists deal with these issues, guaranteeing that the chimney operates optimally and complies with the appropriate safety regulations. Home and property owners gain peace of mind and a dependable heating source through regular inspections and repairs, which also extend the chimney's life expectancy and reduce the need for costly future repairs. (39607 - Chimney Repairs Totton)
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Fireplace Installers Near Totton
Also find: Totton and Eling fireplace installers, Hounsdown fireplace installers, Colbury fireplace installers, Cadnam fireplace installers, Hammonds Green fireplace installers, Ashurst Bridge fireplace installers, Hill Street fireplace installers, Eling fireplace installers, London Minstead fireplace installers, Winsor fireplace installers, Woodlands fireplace installers, Bartley fireplace installers, Copythorne fireplace installers, West Totton fireplace installers, Hillyfields fireplace installers, Testwood fireplace installers, Redbridge fireplace installers, Minstead fireplace installers, Pooksgreen fireplace installers, Calmore fireplace installers, Millbrook fireplace installers and more. Fireplace installation services are widely available in the majority of these villages and towns. These seasoned tradesmen's experience and knowledge make them well-suited for the precise installation of fireplaces in your home. Thanks to the support from these dedicated specialists, residents can relish the cosy atmosphere and warmth a fireplace provides in their living environments. To get price quotes for fireplace installation, local homeowners can click here.
Totton Fireplace Related Tasks
The number of services and tasks that can be conducted by your local fireplace installer are varied and wide, and will usually include things like fireplace cleaning in Totton, three-sided fireplaces, reclaimed fireplaces Totton, Victorian fireplace installations, fireplace suites, wood mantels, inglenook fireplace installation Totton, chimney cowl installation, fireplace restoration Totton, double-sided stove installation Totton, fireplace fitting Totton, modern gas fires in Totton, designer fireplaces, fireplace surrounds in Totton, modern fireplace, made-to-measure fireplaces, the installation of modern fireplaces, cast fireplace installation Totton, Victorian fireplaces Totton, fireplace removal, tiled fireplaces Totton, open fireplaces, fireplace inserts in Totton, corner fireplaces Totton, contemporary fireplaces Totton, chimney sweeping, reclaimed fireplace installations in Totton, fireplace replacement, Regency fireplaces Totton, fireplace design, chimney modifications, freestanding stoves, marble fireplace surrounds, the installation of disigner fireplaces in Totton, stone fireplace installations in Totton, and others not mentioned here.
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