What are some tips for having a fireplace installed in my home? Not much is involved in the installation of a freestanding fireplace. Installation of a chimney system for other types of fireplaces is also relatively simple.
It's no secret that the cost of living is constantly on the rise. And studies show that the everyday items that we thrive off of will only continue to rise in price as we continue to grow as a society. So, in order to find other ways to save the almighty dollar, consumers and homeowners have begun to do more and more in-home projects themselves in hopes of saving a few extra dollars down the road.
For example, a lot of consumers have begun to take on tasks such as re-tiling their roof, carpeting the floor, and sometimes even building their own furniture in hopes of finding ways to stretch a buck a little further. But just as do-it-yourself seems like a smart and cost effective way to handle a new project, there are some projects that require a lot more attention to detail because of potential safety issues.
One area where homeowners have started to do their own labor is with the installation of a fireplace. Fireplaces are traditionally known for their large, brick façades that sit against the wall of a family or living room. But as times and technology continue to change, new and improved fireplaces are being developed. And with these new fireplaces, the difficulties that we once faced as homeowners are being reduced, allowing for more self-built fireplace projects.
Dennis Capo works at Malm Fireplaces, which has been in the business of fireplaces for over 40 years. Capo says that installing your own fireplace is a project that just about any homeowner can do.
"Absolutely," he said when asked if installing a fireplace is a do-it yourself project. "Actually, the average homeowner who is handy can do it themselves. We always recommend a professional, but there is not much involved. I would say a novice could probably install the average fireplace in six to eight hours. But it is always best to use a professional."
While installing a fireplace is a very doable do-it yourself project, because of the dangers that can be involved from one wrong mistake, most experts will tell you to always consult a professional before getting started. Other details to consider before getting started involve checking with your insurance company.
Insurance companies have guidelines that may force the homeowner to have the fireplace installed by a professional. In addition, most fireplace manufactures will not honor their warranties if the unit is not installed by a professional.
Freestanding fireplaces are the most likely type of fireplace that homeowners would attempt to install themselves. Capo has detailed instructions that should be followed before attempting anything: "On a freestanding fireplace or a stove, installation entails putting a heat protection on the floor -- something to put under the fireplace to protect your house from the heat. Then you would need to cut a hole in your ceiling and in your roof. Then you would just pull back your shingles on your roof about a foot, slide the fastening in and drop the chimney pipe in. It is pretty simple. Chimney systems are all prefabricated and are wonderful systems. They are good for up to 2,100 degrees."
