10 Ways To Build Your In Wall Fireplace Empire
In Wall Fireplace - How to Choose the Right Height and Depth for Your Fireplace
A built-in fireplace offers a sleek, polished look without having to pay for an additional mantle. It is among the most simple electric fireplaces to install.
However, there are several aspects to take into consideration prior to purchasing your in wall fireplace. Follow these tips to make the most out of your investment.
Height
While it may appear to be a simple question to answer, determining the height of your fireplace is among the most important decisions you make. The height of your fireplace can influence everything, from how well it will fit into a space to its visibility. Your fireplace could look strange when it is too high. It can also diminish its beauty. A fireplace that is too low will be lost within the wall space.
Luckily, electric fireplaces are versatile enough to be installed at various heights. For instance, the majority of people prefer to place their fireplaces on the eye level from a sitting position. This usually requires a height of 40-42 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fireplace. Others mount their fireplaces underneath their TVs, which can be visually appealing.
The size of your fireplace will depend on a few things, including the size of the room and the length of the wall you'd like to place it. The larger the space is, the bigger it will be. This could mean you are able to fit a larger fireplace in it. The same is true for the length of the wall as a wall with a greater length can support a wider fireplace.
Another important factor to consider is how you intend to use your fireplace. If you are planning to use it solely for decorative purposes, then a lower height is best. If you're planning to heat your home with it, you'll need to make sure that the fireplace is tall enough to meet local codes and safety standards.
Having the proper height for your fireplace can help to ensure that it's in keeping with the decor and is simple to work on when cleaning or filling it. You can always ask a professional fireplace installer to assist you if you aren't sure what best height to choose. They'll be able to suggest the ideal height for your fireplace insert in light of their experience and your unique home.
Depth
A fireplace's depth is important to consider if you intend to put it in a recessed position. If you're planning to cut your wall, make sure that you have enough depth to accommodate the design of your fireplace (the smoke shelf above the firebox, the flue that runs through the roof, and the fireplace itself). You should also think about the space available for the surround and whether you'd like a fireplace mantle.
Many of the latest electric models of fireplaces have the depth of being almost concealed, creating an almost "built-in" appearance. The Panorama Bi-Deep series is a fantastic example of this kind of electric fireplace that is wall-mounted. This model features an 5.8-inch depth that allows the viewer to see the flames and ember bed instead of the frame of the fireplace. The media package includes driftwood logs with natural appearance, white pebbles or crystals of clear glass to enhance the embers and reflect the flames.
Gas wall-mounted fireplaces also come in both deep and shallow models. However, when deciding on the depth of your fireplace, it is essential to remember that these fireplaces function as a supplemental heat source and should be properly vented by an experienced professional. When determining the depth of gas fireplaces you must take into consideration the length of the vent pipe and the size of the chimney.
If you decide to go with a surface mount or recess-mounted installation, it is essential to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions when installing your fireplace. In most cases, a professional installer is advised. It is also good to have an extra person on hand when installing gas fireplaces.
Addition of an in-wall fire space to your home is a great way to increase the value of it and add ambience. It also can reduce your heating costs. Moreover, it is an ideal option if are unable to fit traditional fireplaces in your home because of space limitations or due to the location of your existing chimney.
Surface Mount
If you're not able or prefer not to cut into your wall or construct an area to accommodate an electric fireplace, a surface mount gives a sleek and built-in appearance. Some models, like the Allusion line of electric fireplaces (Read More Here), can be mounted partially recessed into a wall without compromising the heat output.
To start the installation process, determine the area where you want your fireplace to be placed and mark it using a pencil on the wall where the bracket will be put. Use a stud-finder for locating the studs, and place the brackets in front of at least one stud for stability. If a stud cannot be reached or is not suitable for your fireplace, use drywall anchors as a support.
Once you have marked the location of mounting brackets on the wall using a power drill, you can use it to install them, making sure they are aligned correctly with the studs. You can use studs or anchors made of plastic to attach each bracket. Once the mounting brackets are installed move the fireplace and hang it from the bracket. Once it's secure, verify the position of your fireplace to ensure that it's straight and not crooked within the opening.
Before you begin the installation make sure to plug in your fireplace and make sure that all features work correctly. Then, light the fire, experiment with the heating, the lighting of the ember bed, and the list goes on. Once you're happy with the results then it's time to put up your floating mantel.
Depending on the model of your fireplace You'll either have to connect the wire connection to the appliance connector located at the lower part of the mantel or if it has slots or hooks, connect them to slots on the mounting brackets. After you've completed this process you should consult your fireplace's user manual to learn how to remove the front glass panel from the opening and replace it.
After you've removed the front panel of your fireplace and placed it into its opening, follow the instructions in the manual to complete the install by replacing the glass front and adjusting the height if necessary. If your fireplace is equipped with ember bed media, spread it out across the top of the grate to create a more natural appearance and then secure it in place by using the screws that come with it.
Plug-In
Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces don't require chimneys or vents. They plug into standard outlets they provide additional heating for rooms up to 400 square feet. You can also customize the ambiance with multiple flame and heat settings. Certain models come with LED lighting effects that highlight the fire and embers. Certain models have a grille on top that conceals the manual controls, but it can be opened easily to reveal pushbuttons.
Plug-in electric fireplaces can be hung directly on walls or built into the wall to create an aesthetically pleasing look. These fireplaces are usually more straightforward to set up than mantel fireplaces. Some models have a pedestal that permit you to place the fireplace on flat surfaces, such as a dresser or buffet. A remote control along with mounting hardware and a log set are included. Based on the model, electric fireplaces can include heating and flame options that can be turned off to provide ambiance throughout the year.
Some models have adjustable privacy glass that you can instantly change from completely see-through to partially transparent. These kinds of models are popular for walls that divide spaces for entertainment like living and dining rooms. These models can be utilized in bedrooms, where fireplaces is a cost-effective option to warm a room and maintain privacy.
While plug-in electric fireplaces don't need to be hardwired like traditional fireplaces, they must be mounted within a wall that is at a minimum stud-free and capable of supporting the weight of the tabletop fireplace. Some models include a kit to make this process easier with a pre-wired power cord as well as an specialized mounting bracket. This kit can be used for either the installation of drywall or concrete.
If you choose to install your electric fireplace in a wall ensure that it is near an outlet. Based on the model, plug-in electric fireplaces can be plugged into outlets that are on the same circuit, or a separate one for your electric fireplace. It is best to choose a dedicated circuit so that nothing else in your home will run at the same voltage and possibly trip your breakers.