Fireplace installation isn’t as simple as plugging in a unit or placing it in a wall. It’s a multi-step process that takes planning, permits, and help from trained professionals.

This guide breaks down what you can expect during a fireplace install. We’ll cover everything from the first consultation to final safety checks. Knowing what’s ahead helps you avoid delays, make smarter choices, and get the best results for your home.

Step 1: Initial Consultation & Picking Your Preferred Fireplace 

Every fireplace installation starts with a consultation. This is when you meet with a professional to assess your space, review your goals, and get expert advice on the best type of unit for your home.

Many homeowners begin by searching for local experts who can guide them through options and pricing. 

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Assess Your Space & Heating Needs 

Before choosing a fireplace, installers need to look at the size and shape of your space. They’ll check things like room dimensions, ceiling height, layout, and whether there’s already venting in place.

This step usually includes a home visit or a virtual consultation to take measurements and see what’s possible. You’ll also want to explain your main goal: do you want cozy ambiance, more warmth, or a primary heat source?

Getting clear on these details early ensures the fireplace you choose will actually work for your space and needs.

Gas, Electric, or Wood-Burning Fireplaces: Find the Right Fit

Choosing the right fireplace starts with understanding how each type works and what it offers.

  • Gas fireplace installation is a popular option for its clean burn, high efficiency, and ease of use. Gas units heat quickly and can produce around 20,000 BTUs—enough to warm 1,600 to 2,000 square feet. If your home has a gas line, this is often the most powerful and convenient choice.
  • Electric fireplace installation is the simplest route. These units don’t need venting and work well in bedrooms, apartments, or bonus rooms. A typical 1500-watt electric fireplace generates about 5,000 BTUs, which can heat up to 500 square feet as a secondary heat source. This may be the way to go if flexibility and low maintenance matter most.
  • Wood-burning fireplaces provide the traditional crackle and charm, along with serious heat output. But they require a chimney, regular cleanings, and ongoing maintenance. They’re best suited for homeowners who don’t mind the extra work and want a more classic feel.

Think about whether you’re replacing an existing fireplace or doing a brand-new gas fireplace install. Consider your home’s layout, access to gas or power, and your lifestyle when making your choice.

Step 2: Site Assessment & Permits

Once you’ve chosen your fireplace, the next step is a site visit from a licensed installer. They’ll take final measurements and inspect the space where the unit will go.

During this visit, they’ll check for proper framing, safe clearances from walls or floors, and any venting needs. These details help ensure a smooth and safe gas fireplace installation.

Permits are also part of this step. Most towns and cities require one before work can begin, especially for gas or wood-burning units. Your installer will often handle this process for you. Take time to research and find  to find licensed pros who know the local codes

Review Electrical & Venting Requirements

Once the site is assessed, the next step is to check the power and venting setup. For an electric fireplace, installers will inspect nearby outlets and confirm that your electrical system can support the unit. In some cases, you may need a dedicated circuit or an upgrade to your panel.

For a gas fireplace installation, the crew will examine the existing gas line or identify where a new one can be added. Venting is also a big part of this step. Gas units often use direct venting through an exterior wall, while wood-burning fireplaces need a flue or chimney to safely release smoke.

If anything is missing—like proper airflow or safe power access—your installer will let you know what needs to be added or changed to move forward.

Step 3: Installing Your Fireplace

This is the phase where the fireplace installation actually happens. The unit is brought in, set in place, and connected to the right systems, whether that’s electricity, gas, or a chimney.

Depending on the setup, this part may involve carpentry to build a frame or mantel, electrical work for power, or plumbing for gas lines. Installers will also handle venting if it’s required. Whether it’s a built-in, insert, or freestanding model, each fireplace install comes with its own challenges.

Average Timeline for the Installation Process

The time it takes to complete a fireplace installation depends on the type of unit and your home’s setup. For electric fireplace installation, most jobs are finished in about 4 to 8 hours. These are the quickest because they don’t require venting or major construction.

Gas and wood-burning units usually take longer—about 1 to 2 days—since they often involve plumbing, venting, and safety inspections. If your install includes custom framing, a mantel buildout, or stonework, expect the timeline to stretch out to several days or even a full week.

Factors like weather delays, permit approvals, or scheduling inspections can also slow things down. It’s good to plan with a little flexibility in mind.

Step 4: Final Inspection & Safety Testing

Once your fireplace is installed, it needs to be tested for safety and performance. This step includes making sure everything is working as it should, including the heat output, venting, and control features.

Installers will also go through a series of safety checks. In many cases, a formal inspection is required by your local building department.

Testing the System

After the installation is complete, the installer will run a full system check. They’ll start the fireplace, make sure it operates correctly, and confirm that it shuts down safely.

For electric units, they’ll test the power connection and verify that the heater and flame effects are working. For gas fireplaces, they’ll check flame height, ignition, and the pilot light.

Any included remotes, thermostats, or wall switches will also be tested to make sure you can control the unit without issues.

Safety Checks

Safety is a top priority during any fireplace installation. The installer will make sure the unit has enough clearance from walls, furniture, and other materials that could catch fire.

If your fireplace includes a safety screen or barrier, that will be tested to ensure it’s secure and functioning. For gas units, venting will be checked for leaks or misalignment, and carbon monoxide safety measures may also be reviewed.

These checks help make sure your fireplace operates safely from day one.

Permit & Code Compliance Inspections

After installation, many local governments require an official inspection to sign off on the work. This ensures the fireplace meets all building and fire safety codes, especially for a gas fireplace install or a wood-burning unit.

The installer usually handles the scheduling and coordination with your city or county building department. Once approved, you’ll have peace of mind knowing everything is up to code.

Final Walkthrough of Your Fireplace

Before the job is officially done, your fireplace installer will walk you through how everything works. They’ll show you how to safely operate the unit, adjust the settings, and use the thermostat or remote controls.

They’ll also cover basic care tips and explain how to turn off the system in case of an emergency. This is the perfect time to ask any last questions and make sure you feel safe and assured using your new fireplace.

Start-Up & Educating Yourself as a Homeowner

Once your fireplace is installed and inspected, the final step is getting comfortable with using it. A technician will walk you through all the features and make sure you understand how to run and maintain it.

What to Expect During a Start-Up Appointment 

During the start-up visit, a technician will go over how to ignite your fireplace, adjust the heat, and use any built-in fans or remote controls. They’ll double-check that everything is working the way it should.

You’ll also get a quick review of the safety features and how to operate the system day-to-day. If you ever need help down the line, searching for electric fireplace installers near me can connect you with local support.

Learning How to Use Your Fireplace

Once your fireplace is set up and tested, it’s important to learn how to use it the right way. Your technician will show you how to adjust the flame, set timers, and operate the fan or blower system if your unit has one.

They should also explain the best safety habits, like keeping flammable items away and knowing how to shut the unit off quickly. You may get a manual or links to online resources so you can refer back to the instructions when needed.

The Importance of Maintenance After Your Fireplace Installation

Your fireplace needs regular care to keep working safely and efficiently.

Electric fireplaces are easy to maintain and mostly need simple cleaning. Gas and wood-burning units should be checked by a pro once a year to make sure everything is safe and running right.

Taking care of your fireplace helps prevent problems and keeps it working well for many years.

Your Next Steps Toward a Warmer, Safer Home

Fireplace installation may seem like a big project, but breaking it into clear steps makes it easier to manage. From choosing the right fireplace to final inspections, each phase is designed to keep your home safe, warm, and stylish.

To recap: start with a consultation to match your fireplace to your space and heating needs. Make sure your installer handles permits and code checks. Understand the pros and cons of electric, gas, and wood-burning models. Trust professionals to do the work safely and walk you through how to use your new unit.

If you’re thinking about a fireplace install, now’s the time to take action. Talk to a local expert, ask questions about your options, and request a free estimate to start your project off right.

 

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the unique fireplace settings and designs that you might be considering for any part of your home. While fireplaces have traditionally been considered mostly for living room and family room settings, modern technology makes it easy to install a fireplace virtually anywhere in your home – and there are several options for doing so.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces and numerous related options to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. Here are some other unique fireplace setting and design options that are at your fingertips depending on how outside the box you want to get, plus what to think about in each of these areas.

Office Fireplaces

Especially as more and more people work partially or fully from home and are setting up dedicated offices, adding a fireplace is an increasingly popular option. While most of us wouldn’t consider a fireplace practical in an office setting due to the amount of space they require and the potential for fire hazards, modern technology has made it possible to install efficient electric fireplaces that are safe and easy to use while still offering all the warmth and ambience of a traditional fireplace.

If you’re going with an electric fireplace for your home office, consider the design of the unit and how it will fit into the overall style of the room. Electric fireplaces come in a wide range of styles – from modern and sleek to more traditional and rustic – so you’re sure to find one that matches your aesthetic preferences.

Outdoor Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces are an excellent way to extend the use of your outdoor living space late into fall and even winter. With the right outdoor fireplace, you can turn your patio or deck into a year-round gathering spot for family and friends.

When selecting a fireplace to use outdoors, there are several factors to think about: Weatherproofing should be a top priority, as you want to make sure your unit can stand up to the elements. Durability is another important factor, as outdoor fireplaces will be exposed to more wear and tear than those located indoors. Additionally, safety should be a primary concern – never forget that an outdoor fireplace is still a source of open flame!

Hallways or In-Between Spaces

Finally, don’t forget that you can also install a fireplace in your hallway or in between two rooms. This is an excellent way to warm up these areas, which may not get as much natural light or other sources of warmth during cold winter months.

The best option for hallways and in-between spaces will depend on the available space – wall mount fireplaces are great when there’s no room for a traditional mantel and surround, while more traditional looking models may be available if you’re working with a larger area.

No matter what type of fireplace you choose or where it’s located, Comfort Solutions Fireplace is here to help ensure your installation goes smoothly and that the end result meets your satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about our fireplace options!

While many people think of a cozy living room or family room when they hear the word fireplace, the reality is that these areas are far from the only options for a quality fireplace setup in your home. Especially with improving fireplace technology, there are numerous additional unique fireplace designs and placement areas to consider in your home.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer the widest range of fireplace options you’ll find in Salt Lake City or other parts of Utah, from traditional fireplaces to modern options, outdoor heating solutions and more. Here are some of the unique settings or designs you might consider for your fireplace setup, across this two-part blog series.

Master Bathroom Fireplaces

As the name implies, a master bathroom fireplace adds luxury and comfort to your master bathroom. From gas or electric fireplaces to ethanol burning models, you could even install one in a stand-alone area of your bathroom for optimal relaxation during baths. It’s an unexpected addition that will give you a feeling of luxury every time you use it.

If you’re considering a bathroom fireplace, you should consider one that is designed to resist the high humidity and heat of a bathroom. It’s also important to check with your local building code authority to make sure any installation adheres to all regulations or restrictions.

Kitchen Fireplaces

Kitchens are often a gathering place for family and friends, so why not consider adding a little extra warmth and style to the space? A kitchen fireplace can really change the atmosphere of your kitchen while adding a rustic, cozy feel all at once. You can install a wood-burning or gas fireplace in your kitchen, depending on your preferences.

For safety reasons, you should take into consideration the layout of your kitchen when installing an indoor fireplace. Installing one near stoves, ovens, and other heat sources should also be avoided since this could create a dangerous situation. Fireplace surrounds should also be made of non-combustible materials to ensure safety as well.

Bedroom Fireplaces

Another unexpected area for fireplace installation is the bedroom. Whether you like to spend time reading or simply sleeping near a warm fire, installing a fireplace in your bedroom can create an atmosphere of rest and relaxation.

When it comes to bedroom fireplaces, electric models are usually the most popular choice since they’re easy to install and don’t require venting. Gas and wood-burning models should be installed by professionals to ensure safety and proper installation.

In part two of this series, we’ll discuss some other unique choices you might consider for your fireplace setup. No matter what type of fireplace option you’re looking for, Comfort Solutions Fireplace has you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our amazing selection of fireplaces!

There are several key elements to be thinking about when you’re installing a fireplace in your home, and one of the most important for multiple reasons is the size you’re going for. Fireplaces come in a range of different sizes, and which you choose could depend no a number of different specific variables.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide variety of both traditional and contemporary fireplaces, all in varying styles and sizes. We’ll assist you with every part of your selection process for a new fireplace, including discussing your size options and which is likely best for your budget and needs. In this two-part blog series, we’ll discuss the key factors that should influence your fireplace size decision, plus how to consider each of them.

Any Previous Fireplace Space

If your home already has an existing fireplace, then the size of that space could have a direct bearing on your new fireplace choices. Of course, you’ll want to make sure whatever option you go for will fit in the space that’s already there, so it’s important to keep this factor in mind when looking at sizes.

For instance, if your home previous contained a wood fireplace but you wanted to upgrade to a more modern fuel source, inserts come in a variety of sizes and can be tailored to fit an existing space. This could be especially helpful if you wanted to a large upgrade on the new fireplace but didn’t want to make structural changes to the home itself.

BTUs and Heating Capacity

For any fireplace, the BTUs and heating capacity can vary drastically depending on the size. If you have a large space to heat with your new fireplace, then you’ll certainly need something that has a high output – in other words, a larger model.

On the flip side, if you don’t have very much area to warm up in your home or are simply looking for something that provides a beautiful ambiance but won’t be used to heat the whole house, then you could opt for a smaller model.

Room Size and Length of Walls

Another factor to consider when it comes to the size of your new fireplace is the overall dimensions of the room as well as any length of walls that could be affected by its installation. This means taking measurements for all these factors and keeping them in mind when you’re browsing different fireplaces.

For example, if you have a long wall where you want to place the fireplace, you may opt for a larger model that spans its length. On the other hand, if you have a smaller room with limited space then something smaller could be more suitable.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over how to consider ventilation and proper installation when it comes to choosing the right size fireplace for your home. Stay tuned!

And if you’re interested in getting a new fireplace installed, contact us today at Comfort Solutions Fireplace to get started. We look forward to helping you get the perfect size for your needs and budget!

In part one of this two-part series, we went over some of the initial variables that typically help determine the expected lifespan of a gas fireplace. Clients installing any kind of fireplace will naturally want to know how long they can expect it to perform optimally, and there are elements here both within and outside of your control as a fireplace owner.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces, including linear fireplaces, frameless fireplaces and many other options. We’re happy to go over important concepts like expected lifespan with clients ahead of their purchase, including some of the key factors that will dictate it. Today’s part two of our series will look into a few other key variables here, including a couple you have direct control over as a fireplace owner.

Blower and Remote Qualities

Two other important factors that play into expected lifespan for a gas fireplace are the quality of the blower and remote being used. Blowers, for example, can be high-powered or low-powered depending on your model and how much airflow you desire. High-quality blowers here tend to last longer than their lower-powered counterparts, so it’s worth investing in one that will last as long as possible.

Similarly, the remote used to control your gas fireplace can also have an effect on its expected lifespan. A quality remote with a reliable connection and well-built parts may be able to hold up better over time than one with cheaper materials or weak connections, so it’s important to look into what kind of remote your fireplace model has.

Pilot and Igniter Assembly

Another factor to consider here is the pilot and igniter assembly. The pilot light (or lack thereof) will typically determine how much gas flows into your fireplace, as well as just how hot it gets overall. A pilot light with low output or an out-dated igniter can lead to a lower expected lifespan for your fireplace, so it’s important to have it looked at and maintained by a professional technician if necessary.

It’s also worth noting that some newer gas fireplaces are designed with electronic igniters, which will not require a pilot light at all. These can be beneficial in terms of expected lifespan since they don’t rely on as many mechanical parts like traditional models do.

Maintenance and Care

Finally, the expected lifespan of a gas fireplace can also be affected by the amount of maintenance and care you provide it. Regular cleaning and inspection will help ensure that all parts are in good shape, making it less likely that any issues will arise down the line. This is especially true for items like fans, blowers and other moving parts which need to remain in good condition in order to keep your fireplace running smoothly.

By investing the time and effort into properly maintaining your gas fireplace, you can rest assured knowing that it will last as long as possible. Taking care of any issues right away and keeping an eye out for signs of wear or damage can go a long way in getting the most out of your fireplace.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we understand the importance of having a reliable and long-lasting gas fireplace in your home. We hope this two-part series has been helpful in showing the various factors that can affect expected lifespan, as well as some important tips to keep it running optimally for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your fireplace.

It’s natural to be curious about how long a given product or item is going to last after you purchase it, and this is especially true for high-value items like fireplaces. Focusing specifically on the modern gas fireplace, which key elements impact how long this item can be expected to last and operate efficiently?

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces to clients throughout Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. We’ll walk you through the entire selection process, including helping you understand the important components you’re choosing and how long your entire setup can be expected to last. In this two-part blog series, let’s go over the key factors in expected lifespan for a gas fireplace.

Type of Firebox Used

There are three kinds of gas fireplace firebox options: Direct vent, b-vent and ventless.

  • A direct vent gas fireplace has a sealed firebox with a pipe that goes through an exterior wall. The flue gases are exhausted directly outside, and fresh air for combustion is brought in via the same pipe. Because this type of system is hermetically sealed, it’s very efficient.
  • A b-vent gas fireplace also has a sealed firebox, but the pipe that vents the flue gases goes up the chimney. These models are less efficient than direct vent options.
  • Ventless gas fireplaces don’t have a flue or any type of pipe. The combustion gases are exhausted into the room where the fireplace is located. While this might not sound ideal, the fireplaces are designed with several safety features to ensure that they operate efficiently and don’t pose a danger to homeowners.

The type of firebox you choose will impact how long your gas fireplace lasts. Direct vent and b-vent options will last longer because they’re more efficient and have less wear and tear on the components. Ventless options will still last a long time, but they might not be as efficient and could require more maintenance over time.

Size of the Fireplace

The size of your fireplace will also play a role in how long it lasts. A smaller fireplace will have less wear and tear on the components and will be less likely to experience problems down the road. A larger fireplace will have more stress on the components and might require more maintenance over time.

Decorative Liner Used

Many gas fireplaces come with a decorative liner that goes around the firebox. This liner can be made of different materials, including stone, brick or metal.

The type of liner you choose will impact how long your fireplace lasts. A stone or brick liner will last longer than a metal liner because it’s more durable and less likely to experience problems. A metal liner might last a long time, but it could eventually start to corrode or experience other issues.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some additional factors that play a role in determining gas fireplace lifespan. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or services for SLC clients, speak to our team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the most important terms to know when it comes to the realm of fireplace accessories. There are several specific items that are technically not part of the fireplace itself, but still play a major role in its operations, and knowing about them will help you build the ideal setup for your home.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to assist Utah clients with a huge range of traditional and modern fireplaces, plus with all the accessories and related items you might need. What are some other basic fireplace accessory terms to have in your lexicon? Here are a few.

Inner Panels

Present on both gas fireplaces and inserts, inner panels are the materials that line the firebox. They can be made of ceramic, refractory bricks, or metal, and their purpose is to help reflect heat back into the room and protect the fireplace itself from heat damage.

Media

You might be wondering about the inclusion of this term, which for many people refers to the press and areas of journalism. In the fireplace world, however, “media” simply refers to the kinds of materials being placed inside the fireplace to “burn” (or give the appearance of burning).

Examples of media in fireplaces include log sets, crystals, stones, and more. Modern fireplaces often come with the option to display different media sets, which can change up the look of your fireplace as you see fit.

Surround

A term that’s used primarily for gas fireplace inserts is “surround,” which refers to an accessory that covers any holes that the insert or faceplate is not large enough to cover. For example, if you’re installing gas inserts into a previous fireplace that had a rounded opening, a surround can be used to give the new fireplace a more finished appearance.

If the surround wasn’t used here, on the other hand, there would likely be noticeable gaps around the new insert. Surrounds can be made of different materials, including wood, stone, and metal.

Venting

One of the most important fireplace accessory areas is the venting, which is what allows the fireplace to properly draw in air and expel smoke. Improper or insufficient venting can cause all kinds of problems for a fireplace, so it’s important that homeowners take this area into consideration when planning their setup.

There are several different types of vents that can be used for a fireplace, including natural draft, B-vent, and direct vent. The type of fireplace you have will likely dictate which kind of venting is best for your needs.

Now that we’ve gone over a few more key fireplace accessory terms, you should have a better understanding of some of the items you might need for your own fireplace. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace services in Utah, speak to the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the most important terms to be aware of within the realm of style for a fireplace. Fireplaces come in a few different style alternatives, and knowing how these are discussed and what certain specific terms refer to will help you make the optimal decision for your fireplace needs.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we proudly offer our clients a wide range of fireplace materials to our Salt Lake City and other Utah clients, from traditional styles to modern options and everything in between. Today’s part two of our series will continue our alphabetical breakdown of some of the most important style-related terms to know as you enter the market for any kind of fireplace.

Pier Style

When you hear this term used, it’s referring to a three-sided fireplace that has glass on the front, the back and one of the two sides. This style is most often seen in a custom or contemporary-style space.

Another option for this style is for those who want the fireplace to be viewable from more than one room in the home simultaneously. For instance, this type of fireplace may be used as a divider between rooms. It’s also sometimes used as part of a pony-wall.

See-Through Fireplace

As the name indicates, a see-through fireplace is a style that has glass on both the front and back of the unit, allowing it to be visible from the inside of the room as well as through exterior windows. This is another fireplace style that’s sometimes used to divide or separate spaces.

It’s most common in homes or spaces that are going for an “open” style, such as lofts and industrial-style spaces. Because of its classy appearance, it’s also seen in modern-style homes.

Single-Sided

While we’ve gone over a number of fireplace styles to this point that involve glass on two or more of the sides, there are also simpler options. A fireplace with glass on only one side (the front) is known as a single-sided model.

This is one of the most well-known and popular options for a fireplace, even today. There are a few reasons for this preference. For one thing, it’s the easiest to install and least expensive option out of all the alternatives. For another, it provides a classic look that fits in well with most any style or décor choice you might have, whether it’s modern or traditional.

Traditional Fireplaces

We left off part one of this series by discussing modern fireplaces; on the flip side of that conversation is the traditional style fireplace. These are often seen in older buildings or homes that were built before the modern era began, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be incorporated into more modern spaces.

This is one of the most well-known options for any type of stove, whether it’s gas, wood burning or electric. It’s typically a square or rectangular-shaped fireplace that has a separate opening for the flames and one (or more) for the heated air to escape, thereby warming the room.

It’s found in both traditional-style homes or in modern spaces where it fits in well with other contemporary elements. This style is also clean-lined and simple, which makes it easy to incorporate into any modern space.

For more on style terminology to be aware of when considering a new fireplace, or to learn about any of our SLC fireplace options, speak to the staff at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

If you’re a homeowner considering a fireplace in the year 2022, you have more options than any generation before you. From traditional fireplace styles that have been updated to stick with the times to contemporary options that bring modern themes and more, there are several different choices at your disposal for a new fireplace in terms of style and aesthetics.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re proud to offer a huge range of fireplace options, including both traditional and contemporary styles and every fuel or insert type you can think of. What are some of the various fireplace style terms you’ll want to have an idea of as you’re evaluating your options for a new fireplace? This two-part blog series will go over several, using roughly alphabetical order to keep things simple.

Bay Style

When you hear the term Bay Style for a fireplace, what’s being referenced is a three-sided piece with glass on the front, right and left, typically accompanied by a frame that surrounds the firebox, creating a more traditional appearance for what qualifies as the Bay Style. For many people, this is similar to what they’re used to when it comes to traditional stoves and fireplaces – but with the addition of side glass panels.

Bay style fireplaces are great for larger rooms or areas where you want multiple angles to view the fire from. You don’t have to worry about being too close to the firebox with this style, either, unlike some other options on the market.

Contemporary Fireplace

The term “contemporary” is a broad one used within the realm of fireplace styling to describe various modern and popular styles that are more forward-looking in terms of how your fireplace is designed. You can find contemporary fireplaces with glass doors on the front, which you open to access the firebox, allowing for greater control over your fire.

There’s also contemporary styles that use special types of fuel or inserts that may be different than what you’re used to seeing in traditional fireplaces, such as the electric fireplace that features realistic looking flames that are powered by electricity, eliminating any need for fuel or mess.

Corner Style

As its name suggests, a corner style fireplace is a two-sided item with glass on the front and one additional side, creating an L-shaped look. This type of fireplace is best for corners, but if you have a large enough space to accommodate it, the Corner Style can be used in various other areas around your home as well.

Modern Fireplaces

While modern fireplaces are generally interchangeable with contemporary fireplaces, there’s an even greater emphasis on cutting-edge features and new technologies when it comes to contemporary styles. You’ll find modern fireplaces that are essentially just glass fronts with no surrounding frame, giving you a very minimalistic look for your fireplace design.

For more fireplace style terms to be aware of as you scour the market, or to learn about any of our modern or traditional fireplace options, speak to the staff at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

When you’re considering a new fireplace or upgrading your current one, a term you may hear somewhat often is “non-combustible.” Generally used to describe the primary materials that make up your fireplace setup, non-combustible materials allow for excessive amounts of heat to be maintained without sustaining any damage — and as you can imagine, they’re very important for your fireplace.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, non-combustible materials are a common subject when discussing our fantastic fireplaces with our Utah clients, from modern gas fireplaces to traditional fireplaces, fireplace inserts and more. What exactly does this term mean, what is “combustible clearance” for your fireplace, and are there options out there that don’t require any such clearance? We’ll go over that and more in this two-part blog series.

Non-Combustible Fireplace Materials

As we touched on above, non-combustible fireplace materials refer to those that are capable of withstanding high levels of heat without sustaining any damage. Materials like sheet metal, cement board and tile are all examples of non-combustible materials that are commonly used in fireplace construction to ensure the safety of both the people who own them and their property.

With fireplace inserts, for example, there is a very important distinction between a “non-combustible fireplace” and a “direct-vent fireplace.” The former is capable of achieving its high temperatures without requiring any combustible clearance from the material around it, which means it doesn’t require a direct connection to the combustion air to achieve those temperatures. On the other hand, a direct-vent fireplace requires specific materials surrounding it to ensure its fires will not produce any contaminants that could prove dangerous.

Some examples of non-combustible fireplace materials include sheet metal, cement board, tile, stainless steel and cast iron. These are often very expensive when compared to materials like brick or concrete block, but offer superior safety ratings in the case of an accidental fire.

Why Non-Combustible Materials Are Needed

Fireplaces create significant heat, which means the materials surrounding them will be exposed to some pretty high temperatures. A gas fireplace insert in particular can reach up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit when in use, which is significantly hotter than traditional fireplaces that only attain a maximum of 1500 degrees during use.

While these temperatures are not by any means hot enough to burn your house down in most cases, it’s still hot enough to significantly damage or warp non-combustible materials like sheet metal and wood-based materials. If you were to build a fireplace out of non-combustible materials but neglect to account for the appropriate clearance around it, your walls would be plagued with warping and cracks made worse by the heat exposure. With proper materials, though, these won’t be risks you have to worry about.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over “clearance” concepts that relate to this area, plus your options for limited or even zero-clearance fireplaces if desired. For more on this or any of our fireplace services in Utah, speak to the staff at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.