subject: Stone Fireplace - A True Classic For Modern Homes [print this page] A stone fireplace adds a rustic, solid appeal to any room's decor. The fireplace has long been a centerpiece for many homes. It serves as a gathering point, a place where the family comes together and shares some good cheer, a warm drink, a good story. Whenever you add wood and make a fire, you have a place where you can sit for hours and just soak in the warmth. The fireplace is so ingrained in our culture, that almost each and every home has one and many paintings depict family gatherings around it.
If you are not one of the lucky people who have a house with a fireplace, never fear because there are so many options out there. You have a million choices as to building materials and construction. If you get a contractor, make sure that they've experience and a good list of references and that they know how to deal with local codes and ordinances.
One of the first choices you're likely to create is what type of configuration you would like. You could choose a free standing unit that is set away from the walls, or you might choose a unit that is built into the wall. Usually, free standing units burn wood or coal and are made of cast iron and have an exhaust pipe which goes through the wall or ceiling to exhaust combustion fumes. The benefit of a free standing unit is the flexibility of moving it to another room or just getting rid of it without any major demolition and modification to your home.
Most people don't like the look of cast iron. Free standing units are now available in a massive variety of styles and colors and materials. You might get a unit that looks like an audio video cabinet. The flames are centered where a television would in most cases be and you're protected by glass doors and optionally a chain link barrier. The cabinet is finished in wood accents and even has storage for firewood underneath in an attractive alcove. The exhaust pipe is hidden by the top of the cabinet so it has a particularly neat appearance.
When you have a large home, you would most often opt for a stone fireplace built into the wall. You can also have it finished in brick or marble or granite, any number of materials are suitable. Installation is much more involved than it would be for a free standing unit, but it's well worth the trouble and cost as your family will enjoy it for years to come. If you have a talented stone mason, they could craft a wonderful fireplace and mantle. Some ideas include half-round tops, or the conventional rectangular opening. There isn't a limit to what you may build. Just make sure that you look at plenty of pictures. You can get some great ideas such as marble accents, statues, granite tops, cooking inserts, ventilation fans, etc. You can also have a gas line installed and burn gas instead of firewood. This may come in handy on a cold day whenever you run out of wood.
