Remodeling your home is always a popular idea. You get the
look or functions you want without having to buy a new home. Fireplace remodeling
is a good idea too. Many homes feature old versions that can really drag down
the style of the rest of the room it’s in. Plus, by remodeling your fireplace,
you can get more from its functionality. Before you take on such a big project,
though, consider the following ideas to get the best finished result.
Replace the Materials
One of the easiest ways to get more from your fireplace is
to simply give it a facelift. As we mentioned, many homes feature the old
wood-burning variety that may have a truly outlandish exterior. Remember lava
rocks? No matter what you do to the rest of your room, a fireplace covered in
lava rocks isn’t going to fool anybody.
However, it’s a fairly affordable operation to remove
whatever the current material is and replace it with something like marble,
stone or tile. These days even a cheap option like concrete can be made to look
amazing. Best of all, you don’t need to actually alter the operation of your
current fireplace.
Enhance What You Already Have
Fireplace remodeling sometimes means addressing the area
that surrounds it. Maybe the immediate exterior is fine, but it’s otherwise
just a hole in the wall for fire to go. Consider adding a mantle if you don’t
have one. An expansive molding will also draw more positive attention to your
fireplace without demanding a grueling project or large investment. Columns are
an especially good look and will do plenty, even if you never touch the
fireplace itself.
Convert to a Newer Version
No discussion about fireplace remodeling would be complete
without mentioning your options for converting an older option. If you’re still
stacking wood and adding kindling to use your fireplace, it’s probably safe to
say it’s been a while since you’ve built a fire. This is an almost archaic
operation compared to our high-tech lives these days. Plus, your hands, clothes,
and surrounding area can need cleaning when it’s all done.
Instead, consider modern gas-burning options. Your choices
include:
·
An affordable option like a gas log kit for less
than $1,000.
·
For a bit more, a vent-free option will give you
the same look and feel without having to worry about losing heat to a damper.
·
If you have the budget for it, a gas fireplace
insert is the best option. Your fireplace remodeling project will need about $3,000
for it, but you’ll get the most efficient heating option and can find them in
just about any style you want.
Consider Your Overall Costs
While we’re on the subject of your fireplace remodeling
budget, it’s worth considering what you’ll spend on the finished product. As
you have probably learned, it’s easy to get carried away with all the options
out there. You’ll have no problem dropping thousands of dollars into remodeling
your fireplace, which could actually be a real issue.
Generally, conventional wisdom is that you shouldn’t spend
more than 1% of your house’s total cost, once the project is complete. This
number should still give you plenty of options, plus it ensures a good return
on your investment if you ever sell.
Keep the Theme Consistant
Also, don’t get so carried away with your Chim-A-Lator Fireplace Dampers options that you forget about the rest of your home. A mosaic tile
border may look great, but if the rest of your home has a cottage theme to it,
that fireplace is going to burn your eyes long before you ever start using it.
Most people don’t base the rest of their home’s style around the fireplace they
choose either. No matter what the theme of your house is, you should still have
plenty to work with, stylistically.
Furthermore, if you are considering selling in the near
future, a taste-neutral look is really best. Potential buyers may not be as
fond of fireplace remodeling as you are, after all. So even if it matches the
rest of your home’s style, keeping a natural look will ensure you don’t lose a
buyer because they don’t want the headache of undoing
your handiwork.
Remodeling your fireplace can do a lot for the room and your
home, in general. However, be sure to consider the above ideas before you begin
or the otherwise great feature can burn a hole in your pocket and leave your
home worse off in the process.
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