Gas Fireplaces add Ambiance-and Value

Now there's an easy and economical way to add the beauty and warmth of a fireplace to your home without the potential headaches involved in a major home renovation. Today's gas fireplaces are an attractive alternative to the more traditional wood-burning fireplace. And, the best part is that you don't need to have a chimney at all with the zero-clearance gas fireplaces. Just think, all the benefits of a beautiful roaring fire and there's no messy clean up!

Before you buy any gas fireplace, check the rules and regulations governing the use and installation of the gas fireplaces with your local municipality. Essentially there are three basic types of gas fireplaces: direct-vent, top vent and vent-free. If you're converting your current traditional fireplace, most gas fireplaces can be used with existing hearth, mantel or masonry work. If your home doesn't have natural gas service, there are fireplace units available that can be run on propane. An added bonus is gas fireplaces are a much more economical way to heat a room than a traditional wood burning fireplace, where much of the heat is drawn up the chimney. And with a fire that can be flipped on or off with the flick of a switch, a gas fireplace offers the freedom and flexibility to enjoy a fire for just a few minutes, or all evening…and on only a moment's notice!

When it's time to decide where to put your new fireplace, remember that it will be the focal point of your room. It deserves some pizzazz! With that in mind, it's usually not advisable to put the fireplace in a corner because the mantel can become very deep and awkward looking. Generally, fireplaces look best when centered towards the middle of the room. If you don't have a mantel, the company where you bought your fireplace can usually provide installers who can also build a custom surround for it. You can choose from a wide variety of materials including fieldstone, marble, brick, glass or colourful tile: the only rule is to choose a heat resistant material that conforms to local fire safety codes and meets your home insurer's requirements.

When it comes to size, style and colour, there are virtually unlimited choices. Let your imagination go wild! You might consider building bookshelves on each side of the fireplace. Or what about painting the wall adjoining the fireplace in a vibrant colour to enhance the mantelpiece? No matter what you choose, it will be a wonderful addition to your home for years to come and a great conversation piece – while adding to your home's resale value.

Ask us about how a gas fireplace and other home improvements can noticeably add to your home's value. You may find that you can recoup most or even all of your investment when it comes time to sell. You might decide it's time to be curled up in front of your brand new gas fireplace, enjoying both the ambience and the added value of your home.

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Lars & Michele Nielsen are Real Estate Sales Representatives working with Coldwell Banker Coburn Realty