Traditional masonry fireplaces are known for their charm and rustic appeal, but when you’ve walked past the same exact fireplace year after year, it’s natural to think about changing things up with an update. The downside? The idea of upgrading your fireplace sounds exhausting – you’ll likely have to spend way too much money and deal with messy, intrusive construction. …right?
Fortunately, that’s not true. If you’re a homeowner who has been putting off a fireplace update because you’re concerned about the cost and scope, Mid-Valley Chimney Repair & Sweeps is here with several options to give your fireplace a new look – without breaking your budget or taking over your home.
Call us today at 513-727-0994 or reach out online to ask us about what you can do for your fireplace.
What Are the Benefits of Updating My Fireplace?
An upgrade to your fireplace can have many benefits that can improve your home’s decor, function, and overall value. Here’s a look at some of the key advantages:
- A more personalized look. Your home should be a reflection of you. A fireplace takes up a lot of space when it comes to your home’s interior design and an appliance that doesn’t fit your tastes will stand out like a sore thumb.
- Improve your home’s value. It may not be in your immediate plans, but a revamped fireplace can increase your home’s value by as much as 12%, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
- Lower your energy expenses. One of the biggest drawbacks of having an older fireplace is that it drains energy and wastes heat. Upgrading your fireplace with efficient inserts – like gas or electric models – can significantly reduce heat loss which means more efficient heating and lower energy costs.
- Better safety features. Fireplaces can pose a safety hazard if not properly maintained, but updating your fireplace can address those safety concerns. For instance, you can install a fireplace insert with glass doors to reduce the chances of embers escaping and causing a fire. Some inserts even come equipped with safety features like automatic shut-off and safety valves.
- It’s better for the environment. Being environmentally conscious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fireplace. Gas and electric fireplace inserts offer a cleaner burning alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. This results in fewer emissions released into the environment. By choosing eco-friendly materials for your fireplace, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
How Can I Update My Fireplace?
Want to give your fireplace the makeover you’ve always wanted, but don’t want to completely tear it out and rebuild it? You have several options available to you to choose from:
- Add new accessories to your fireplace. Liven up your fireplace with decorative elements like screens, andirons, and firelogs. These accents aren’t limited to neutral tones. You can make a bold statement and showcase your personality with a colorful fire screen or andirons with intricate details.
- Add a mantle or replace an old one. If your fireplace doesn’t have a mantel, you can add one to make your fireplace an even bigger focal point. Mantles come in a variety of materials including wood, stone, and marble.
- Have an insert installed. A fireplace insert can address two problems – looks and efficiency. It is designed to fit inside your existing fireplace and works by capturing more of the heat from the fire and distributing it throughout the room. An insert is also a cost-effective way to switch fuel types.
- Consider a fireplace facelift. You can make your fireplace look brand new by replacing the facing of it. If you want to keep the look of your fireplace traditional, brick, stone, and cultured stone are good options. For a more modern look, tile, cast concrete, and metal may better suit your tastes.
When Should I Schedule a Fireplace Update?
If you’re ready to update your fireplace, we have good news! Spring and summer are the perfect times to schedule a fireplace update. Fireplaces are less likely to be used during these warmer months, which allows our chimney technicians easier access to the fireplace for renovations. Summer and spring updates also mean you won’t have to miss out on quality time with your fireplace when the burning season returns.
Don’t Put Off Your Fireplace Update Any Longer!
Updating your fireplace doesn’t always lead to expensive renovations that seem to take forever. A few small changes can have big results, especially when they’re done by the experts here at Mid-Valley Chimney Repair & Sweeps. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 513-727-0994 or reach out to us online.