About the Author: Maria Polidoro is the owner of Ace Tool Online, a leading dealer and service center for electrical power tools. Headquartered in Wantagh, New York, Ace Tool offers over 70 major brands of electric hand and power tools and is also home to a full service center. Please visit Ace Tool Online for more information.
Fireplaces are one of the most desirable and consistently requested home amenities because they add a certain charm and comfort to any living space. They also add significant value to your residence, but adding a fireplace is much easier than you may think. And, as winter approaches, this is the perfect time to install your new fireplace so that you can enjoy its benefits during the cooler months.
The key to an affordable fireplace install is choosing the right type of fireplace. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces with chimneys are not only difficult to install, but they are also inefficient (they actually drain the heat from your home.) If you are considering adding on a fireplace, your best bet is a direct venting gas fireplace. These fireplaces are powered by gas and burn so efficiently that they can be vented directly out of an external wall on your house – no chimney required. They frequently come with a convenient timed remote control for superior climate control and safety. Direct venting gas fireplaces will provide the look and warm glow of a traditional fireplace, but are more convenient, efficient, eco-friendly, and less expensive. They are also easy to install.
What you will need for this project:
- A Direct Venting Gas Fireplace. These come in prefabricated packages with thorough installation instructions. You can find quality fireplaces starting around $450.
- A reciprocating saw. The primary tool you will need is a reciprocating saw to cut a hole in the wall for the external vent. Use a reputable brand like Milwaukee saws. You don’t want to skimp when cutting into the external wall of your home. Before doing this, thoroughly read your specific gas stove’s instructions and make sure you are cutting the hole to spec.
- Construction grade adhesive and sealant. To attach pieces and fill gaps.
- 2-3 hours. You can install a gas fireplace on your own in around two to three hours. Depending on the style of gas fireplace you select, you may need create a recession, a façade, or add on a mantle. All of these additions will require some additional carpentry and time.
- A licensed plumber to connect the gas line. And the end of this project, you will also need to have a licensed plumber attach the gas line (either propane or natural gas.) Always use a professional, licensed plumber when dealing with gas lines.
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