How to Redo a Fireplace? (A Complete Guide)

How can you redo a fireplace so it looks new and is safe to use? That’s the question that many homeowners ask themselves when they are deciding what to do with their old, outdated fireplace. In this blog post, we’ll talk about how to complete a full home remodel on your fireplace – from start to finish! We will go over some of the most common mistakes people make when trying to redo a fireplace and highlight what you should be doing instead.

When it comes to the fireplace, many people are interested in finding out how to redo a fireplace. This article will give you everything you need to know about this topic; from what materials are needed, what tools are necessary for the job, and finally some tips on how to make your new fire place look like an authentic piece of art.

How to identify if your Fireplace needs Redoing?

If your fireplace has been in use for a while, it may need to be redone. Check the mortar between the bricks and see if it is crumbling. If so, the fireplace will need to be completely rebuilt.
The damper also needs to be checked. It should close tightly so that smoke and heat don’t escape. If the damper doesn’t close tightly, it will need to be replaced.
If the firebox is cracked, the fireplace will need to be rebuilt.
The flue also needs to be checked. It should be clean and in good condition. If it’s not, the flue will need to be cleaned.

The different materials you can use for a Fireplace

Wood logs: The first one in the list is wood. This material can give you a feeling of being at an actual campfire with your family and friends, or simply feel like home while you are having dinner on a cold night. It’s really up to how much money do you want to spend since it is the most expensive option.
Gas logs: The next one in our list is gas log sets that are known as artificial fireplaces or fake fireplace to some people. It actually makes an appearance of a real wood burning fire, but it will be cheaper than buying actual wooden logs for your house. You can adjust its flame intensity and control how fast the logs burn by turning the knob on the set.
Electric logs: The third type of material for a fireplace is electric logs. They look like natural gas and wood burning fireplaces, but give off no heat at all. It’s just used as an aesthetic addition to your home.

Choosing the right type of stone or brick for your Fireplace

There are many types of stone and brick that can be used to build a fireplace. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of the most common types of stone and brick used in fireplaces:

Natural Stone: Natural stone is quarried from the earth and comes in many different colors and textures. It is a popular choice for fireplaces because of its natural beauty. However, natural stone is expensive and can be difficult to work with.
Cast Stone: Cast stone is made from man-made materials that are designed to look like natural stone. It is a less expensive alternative to real stone. However, it is not as durable or natural looking and can be more difficult to work with than real stone.
Brick: Brick is another popular material for fireplace construction because of its fire resistant qualities and easy installation process. It also comes in many colors and textures which allow you to choose the right one for your home’s interior.
Engineered Stone: Engineered stone is a combination of natural or cast stone and metal that can be used for fireplace construction. It offers many of the same benefits as regular stone but with added resistance to heat, water, and other environmental factors.

Get any necessary permits for installation

Just like any other home improvement project, you will likely need a permit to install a wood burning fireplace. Check with your local municipality to find out what is required in your area.

If you’re in the midst of a renovation or just want to move your old fireplace from one part of your home, then it may be better to consider an alternative like gas logs. But if you are building a new custom home, they can make for a very impressive and cost-effective focal point as long as you will not have issues with the installation permit.

Once you have checked out with your local municipality, head on to Amazon and find a nice set of log inserts for your fireplace. Make sure they are certified as safe by CSA or UL. You can also install them yourself but it might be better to hire an expert if this is something new to you (read on for more on this).

The cost of a gas fireplace insert is significantly cheaper than the cost of a wood burning one. You can also find electric inserts that look very realistic and will give you all the warmth you need without any mess or smoke. But if you’re looking for the real thing, then read on.

How to install a new Fireplace?

Installing a new fireplace is a big project, but it can add significant value to your home and make it more comfortable. There are many types of fireplaces available, so you should choose the one that best meets your needs. If you have an existing masonry fireplace, you may be able to install a wood-burning insert or gas fireplace. If you have a prefabricated fireplace, you can install a gas or electric fireplace.

Here are the steps for installing a new fireplace:

Step One: Determine the Type of Fireplace You Need

There are three types of fireplaces: masonry, wood-burning inserts, and prefabricated.

Masonry fireplaces: These consist of a brick or stone structure built in the wall. They can be difficult to install, but they are stronger and more durable than prefabricated units. Masonry inserts are pre-formed metal panels that fit into an existing fireplace opening instead of building masonry surround around it like with traditional wood burning fireplaces.

Wood-burning inserts: These are installed in an existing fireplace opening and allow you to burn wood in your fireplace. They have a glass door that keeps the heat in the firebox and a damper that controls the air flow.

Prefabricated fireplaces: These are made of metal or ceramic and are easy to install. They are a popular choice for rental units, because they can be removed when the tenant moves out and don’t require wall repairs or repainting like masonry fireplaces do.

Step Two: Prepare to Install Your Fireplace Inserts

If you’re installing an insert-style fireplace in an existing opening, make sure your fireplace is in good shape. Remove any broken or cracked stone, then make sure the fireplace opening has adequate clearance for your new unit (at least 16 inches on either side and 12 inches above). If you’re not installing a masonry surround around your insert, remove any existing mortar between the stones so they can be repositioned properly after installation.

Step Three: Consider Fireplace Location and Venting Requirements

Check with your local building department to make sure you can install a wood-burning unit in your fireplace. In most cases, the flue pipe must be at least six inches higher than any part of the firebox for proper venting. Some codes require eight or even 12 inches of clearance for wood-burning fireplaces. Make sure you also have enough room to safely install and use your fireplace, including a minimum 36 inches between the front of the unit and any combustible materials in or near the area (such as curtains).

Step Four: Prepare Your Fireplace Opening

If you’re installing an insert into an existing masonry fireplace, you’ll need to build a frame for the insert. The frame should be made of two-by-fours and should fit snugly into the opening. If your insert has a metal surround, it will likely come with its own frame.

If you’re installing a prefabricated unit, there’s no need to build a frame; the fireplace will come with its own mounting kit.

Step Five: Prepare the Fireplace Face

If you’re installing an insert, remove any existing mortar between the stones in the opening so they can be repositioned properly after installation. If there is no stone surround for your new unit, clean and dry the surface of the fireplace so the adhesive will stick.

Step Six: Install Your Fireplace Insert

If you’re installing an insert-style fireplace, carefully position it in the opening and make sure it’s level. Then, use a drill to make pilot holes in each corner of the frame (or if your unit comes with its own frame, drill pilot holes in the mounting brackets).

Step Seven: Set Your Fireplace Insert

If you’re not using an insert-frame kit, place a few blocks of wood on either side of your fireplace opening to support the unit. Then, carefully lower it into position and use screws or nails to secure it, placing them every eight to 12 inches.

Step Eight: Install the Flue

The flue pipe for a wood-burning fireplace must be connected to a chimney, and it should extend at least six inches above any part of the firebox. You can either purchase an extension kit or make your own by cutting off all but two feet of the flue pipe.

Some codes require that you use a damper to control the air flow into your wood-burning fireplace, while others don’t unless you’re installing an insert in a masonry opening. If it’s required where you live, make sure there is at least one intake hole and one exhaust hole located on opposite sides of the fireplace opening.

Step Nine: Connect the Chimney Liner

If your chimney isn’t lined, you’ll need to do so before installing your new fireplace. This job can be dangerous, so if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional. The liner should extend from the top of the chimney to just below the damper.

Step Ten: Test Your Fireplace

Once everything is installed, it’s time to light a fire and test your new fireplace! Be sure to have the chimney inspected and cleaned before using it for the first time. Enjoy your warm, toasty fires all winter long!

Painting or staining your new Fireplace

Painting your Fireplace and walls is a great way to make the room look beautiful. However, you need to keep in mind that painting will decrease the heat efficiency of your fireplace by 50%, which means more wood logs are needed for warmth. So if you want more effective heating system then it’s wise not to paint your fireplace and walls.

If you are not going to use the fireplace for heat, then painting or staining it is a great way to improve its appearance. Just make sure that you don’t paint or stain the firebox because this will decrease the efficiency of the unit.

What to do with the old Fireplace?

If you have an old fireplace that you don’t use, you may be wondering if you can put fake logs in it to make it look like it’s working. The answer is yes, you can use fake logs in a wood burning fireplace, but there are a few things you need to know before doing so. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of using fake logs in a wood burning fireplace, as well as some tips for doing so safely.

Pros of Using Fake Logs in Wood Burning Fireplace:

They can make your fireplace look nicer and more realistic.
They can help keep the fire going if you don’t have any wood.
You can turn your fireplace on even if it’s not really cold outside yet, just to make the room look nice and cozy.

How to decorate a newly renovated Fireplace?

One of the easiest ways to add some character to a newly renovated fireplace is by adding decorative logs. You can find these fake logs at most home improvement stores and they are really easy to use. All you have to do is place them in the fireplace just like you would real logs and light them on fire. The best part about using fake logs is that you can get really creative with the way they look. You don’t have to buy plain old logs – there are a variety of artificial log designs available ranging from carbonized wood and natural looking stumps, all the way to fake palm trees!

But what if I told you that you could use these decorative logs in your fireplace even if you don’t have a wood burning fireplace? That’s right, you can use fake logs in gas fireplaces too! Just be sure to check with your manufacturer to make sure that the style of log you choose is compatible with your specific type of fireplace.

So, go ahead and add some personality to your fireplace with these decorative logs – you won’t be disappointed!
If you’re looking for a more realistic look, consider using carbonized wood logs.

Adding finishing touches, such as a Fireplace Screen or Toolset

If you want to make your own faux logs, they can be made from almost anything. Just remember that a lot of things melt or burn at low temperature and its best not to use items such as paper!

Some people like to use pre-made logs, which can be found at most stores. These are made of wax or other artificial materials and will not produce any heat, but they will look realistic in your fireplace.

Another popular option is to use gel fuel cans. These also create a lot of heat and make flames that look very realistic. However, they can be a bit expensive and you will need to purchase a special burner in order to use them.

If you have an electric fireplace, you can use any type of log that you want! Just make sure that it is the correct size for your fireplace.

No matter what type of logs you choose to use, make sure that you have a fireplace screen. This will help prevent any ashes from entering the room and also makes it easier to clean up after your faux fire has gone out.

If you want, you can always add a log toolset for more realism! There are many sets available but they all essentially have the same items – tongs, a poker, and a brush. This will allow you to move and clean your logs without getting too close to the flames.

In closing, faux logs can be used in any type of fireplace – wood burning, gas, or electric! Just make sure that you use the correct type for your particular fireplace and always follow the safety guidelines.

Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA) has strict regulations on what type of logs can be burned in a wood burning fireplace.

The main concern with fake logs is that they may not emit the same amount of heat as real wood, which could cause the fire to smolder and produce harmful emissions.

If you are looking for an alternative to real logs, you might want to consider pellet or gas logs instead.

Pellet and gas logs are made from recycled waste materials, such as sawdust, shavings of wood bark, paper fiber pulp and other organic material that is pressed into a log shape. Both types produce less smoke than real logs do because they burn cleaner than the traditional firewood.

Pellet logs are easy to use and can be burned in any type of fireplace, including wood burning and gas fireplaces. Gas logs are designed specifically for gas fireplaces and will not work in a wood burning fireplace.

If you decide to use fake logs in your wood burning fireplace, make sure that they are EPA approved and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

You can also check with your local fire department to see if they have any regulations or restrictions on the use of fake logs in wood burning fireplaces.

Safety Tips

When using a wood burning fireplace, it is important to follow basic safety tips. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Never use flammable liquids to start a fire in the fireplace.
Always use proper ventilation when burning a fire in the fireplace. Open windows and doors to allow smoke and fumes to escape.
Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies such as a chimney fire or ember fires near the home’s exterior walls.
Always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies such as chimney fires or ember fires near the home’s exterior walls.

FAQs

What is the best way to clean my wood burning fireplace?

There are two ways you can use. First, find a local service provider and ask them for an estimate. Second, get your hands dirty with some of these DIY solutions! Here’s how to do it by yourself: (a) Forjando el hogar: una guía para limpiar y reparar chimeneas de leña (b) How to Clean a Wood-Burning Fireplace by Yourself.

How long do I need to let my wood burning fireplace ash cool before cleaning it?

There is no set time, but we recommend waiting at least 24 hours. The reason behind this is that the ash will still be hot after 12 hours, which can burn you. If you touch it before 24 hours have passed, try to wear gloves and safety glasses (and if possible a mask), so that your senses are not hurt by the unpleasant smell.

How often do I need to clean my wood burning fireplace?

This depends on how often you use it and whether or not the chimney is used correctly. For example, if your fireplace sees a lot of action (the burn almost every day), then cleaning should be done monthly. If, however, only goes up to three times a year, this may be enough. You will notice that there are also seasonal considerations. For example, in the autumn and winter months where there is a lot of ash being produced by the firewood that you burn, cleaning should be done every two weeks or so. However, during spring and summer periods when less wood is consumed (or if gas logs are used), it may happen that no need to clean your fireplace for months on end.

How to use fake logs in wood burning fireplace?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the way you place the logs will depend on the type of fireplace that you have. Generally speaking, though, there are three ways in which they can be placed: (a) Over the grate: the logs are placed on top of the grate, which is usually found at the bottom of the fireplace and maintains a burning fire. The ashes will fall through to it below, while smoke comes out from above via chimney flue; (b) On top: they can also be placed directly over or in front of existing embers that have been left in the fireplace, giving a more authentic and immediate feel to it; (c) In front: logs may be placed on top of or below the grate. They can also slide under existing embers that have been left over from previous fires.

Conclusion

As you can see, the fake logs are made of high quality materials. The log sets will look great in your wood burning fireplace and they may even provide better protection compared to real firewood due to their heat-retaining properties. However, if you have a gas or electric model as it is more environmentally friendly than propane or coal fireplaces. Therefore, if you have a gas or electric fireplace, the fake log sets are not necessary in your home and will be wasted money.