There are a few ways to know whether a fireplace is original or reproduced. You can check the back of your fireplace. If you find new screws, it might be an old product. The seller might have replaced the screws to bring back its functionality. Apart from that, you can check the appearance to know the difference. A new fireplace will look clear and crisp, and there will not be any repair signs. But the reproduced ones will not have the same clarity and sleek look. You might notice the difference with careful observation. One thing you can keep in your mind is that moulds might not be visible, but they will impact the clarity, and it is the best way to know whether a fireplace is new or not.
You can buy antique fireplaces from reliable sellers, including https://www.thornhillgalleries.co.uk/, and avoid risk. They will have a wide range of antique fireplaces, and you can find a suitable one based on your budget and preference. Also, there will be no confusion on whether you have a used or new product. You can consider a reliable seller to get quality and durable fireplaces. The end cost might be a bit more, but you can expect the desired durability and improved performance. Also, many people prefer antique fireplaces since they offer a sophisticated look and add style to any room. You can choose any that fits your budget and meets your unique requirements.
How to Buy a Fireplace
Buying a fireplace might not be easy for first-time buyers. However, you can consider a few things before going ahead with your buying decision. The size will play a determining role when buying a fireplace. You need to know the correct size to make the most of your fireplace. It might overpower your room if you consider too big sizes, and too small sizes will not serve the purpose. You can check the size of the opening and chimney breast to find the exact fit for your room. First, understand the limitation and then get a suitable one. Once you know the size, you can narrow down the choices accordingly.
Wood, Gas, or Electric: Which One Is Better?
While buying a fireplace, first, you should know what type of fuel you want. It is the first consideration, and you can decide after going through the positives and negatives of each. The gas fire is a simple choice and will not require more effort. You can use a pipe in the fireplace opening to make a fire. You can consider installing the fireplace pipe from an experienced professional to avoid risk. Other options are wood and electric.
You can use wood when the flue and chimney are in good condition. You can have brick chimneys since they are compatible with most fire types. But you can take the help of experts to know the unique requirements, and you can ask whether the brick option is suitable for your place or not. Also, you can find pre-cast and pre-fabricated flues in modern homes. The pre-fabricated flue is suitable for most fires, but the pre-cast option will limit your choices due to its slimline design. Talk to experts to find a suitable one based on your home. You can consider the electric option if you want an easy-to-use fireplace. The requirements will be less, but you will need professionals for the installation.
The options are many, but you can choose one based on your preference. For example, you can consider the gas fire to get a fuss-free real flame. Also, the demand for gas fire is more nowadays due to its easy-to-use features. You will have many options in the fires and stoves. You can get classic gas fire with a decorative front and a coal fuel effect.
The electric options will be perfect for those who believe in easy usage. You can consider the wood to get real fire and enjoy the charm. Know what you want, and then you can decide. You should know your budget and space limitations before making a decision. You might need some structural changes to install your preferred choice.
Is Chimney a Must for Gas Fireplaces?
No, a chimney is not a must for a gas fireplace. Currently, you can find some gel and electric models to get an inspiring focal point in your room. You can also use a flue-less gas fire for your fireplace. But these models use a pipe to remove the waste gas. You can consider having a working gas fire even if you do not have a chimney at your home. However, there will be some other requirements. Since the options are many, it might not be hard to find the best fit based on your home condition.
Most modern UK homes do not have chimneys but still use fireplaces. In brief, there are many options to meet the different needs of users. However, you can install a balanced flue system to burn gas fires effectively. If you have the wood supply, you can use a twin-wall pipe system to have the flames of the wood fire. You can also consider the fanned flue models. They come with fans to expel the exhausted gas, and you do not need a power supply since it can cause noise. Besides, you can have a few options in flue-less and chimney-less fireplaces. Broaden your research to find a suitable model for your home.
Traditional Vs. Modern Fireplaces
There is no doubt that a traditional and classic fireplace can add charm to any room. You can consider classic options if the size fits your space. However, modern options offer more flexibility. Also, you can choose from the gel, electric, and gas models, and you will have many options in the surrounds, including sleek, polished steel and glass.
Besides, you can expect a great range of stoves in the modern style, including freestanding, enclosed, cast-iron, and old-fashioned stoves. There will be a few options for all types of buyers. Know your unique requirements, and then research to find the best fit.