Newark Stone Fireplace

During the long, cold winters of Newark, stone fireplaces are one feature of a house that nearly everyone can appreciate. From the radiating warmth of the fire, the flattering light of the flame, and the nostalgic feel of a crackling hearth, fireplaces have no principle drawbacks. On the other hand, as easy as it is to sell homeowners on the idea of a new fireplace, the nuts and bolts installation of a fireplace can be equally difficult. Naturally, the best time to install a fireplace is when the home is built, but just because you don't want to build a home from scratch or move from your current home doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful fireplace.

Stone and Brick Fireplaces in Newark, NJ
Stone and brick fireplaces are designed and constructed by masonry contractors. This process will usually take a week or two as the individual stones and bricks are carefully fit into place. Plus, in a historic city like Newark, anything but real American craftsmanship is likely to suffer next to the amazing architecture throughout the city. Unfortunately, many homeowners simply can't afford the cost of building one of these amazing Newark stone fireplaces. Before you dismiss the idea as folly, however, be sure to talk to one of our local masonry contractors about the cost and possible cost-saving measures that may bring the project within your range.

Pre-fabricated Fireplaces in Newark, NJ
Pre-fabricated units are significantly cheaper and easier to install than a stone or brick fireplace. If you're on a tight budget, this may be the answer for you, but it is important to note that quite a few homeowners wish, in retrospect, that they had spent the money to build a true masonry stone fireplace. Newark residents who are simply looking to provide supplemental heat for their home in the winter will be just fine with a pre-fab unit, but For an accent that will become a signature item of your home, substantially increase its value, and inspire the admiration and envy of your guests, you'll need the unmatched talents of a masonry contractor.

Gas vs. Wood: The Great Debate
Most homeowners have at least a cursory knowledge of gas and wood fireplaces. They know that a wood fire, though pleasant, requires stoking and regular watch. While you won't want to leave a gas fireplace unattended, you can watch a movie, play with the kids, or hold a conversation and leave the fire largely to its own devices. As gas fireplaces become better and better at imitating the real thing, they also become more popular. Yet, it's safe to say that traditionalists will never go away completely. As much as the debate surrounds the convenience of upkeep, the quality of the fire, and the intrinsic properties of a natural flame, there can be structural considerations as well. Chimneys for wood-burning fireplaces must be longer to provide an adequate draw for the fire.

Newark Stone Fireplace Installation Costs
In Newark, stone fireplaces average $3,000, although we've seen projects as little as $1,000 all the way up to nearly $10,000. Pre-fabricated units, by contrast, average less than $1,000. Of course, if you're starting from scratch and your home isn't conducive to retrofitting a fireplace/chimney, you may almost need to write a contractor a blank check.

Newark Chimney Inspections and Cleaning
Once you get your fireplace up and running, or if you already own a fireplace, you absolutely must keep up with your chimney maintenance. Chimney fires can be extremely destructive, but they are also very preventable. With the harsh weather and old architecture in a place like Newark, chimney inspections are a must. How often you get your chimney cleaned will vary depending on your fireplace design, what kind of wood you burn, and how often the fireplace is used. Due to the many factors that determine chimney cleaning frequency, it is difficult to say just how often it should be done without performing an inspection.

Conveniently, chimney inspection can often be performed by the same company that does your cleaning; these professionals can give you a better idea of how often your particular chimney should be cleaned and let you know of any structural issues your chimney might be facing, as well. Newark chimney inspection and cleaning companies won't cost you an arm and a leg (the average cost of a chimney cleaning in Newark, NJ is about $300), and having a professional clean and inspect your chimney is the number one way to prevent a chimney fire. To get the best price on inspection and cleaning, have it performed in the off-season. Doing so won't just save you a couple bucks, it will ensure that your chimney and fireplace system is ready to go at the first sign of winter weather.

Rate This Article

OVERALL RATING Be first to rate this article!

YOUR RATING

Saving Rating...

Log-in to save your ratings!

Recommend This Article

Digg
Reddit
Del.icio.us

ServiceMagic Articles To-Go