With colder weather on its way and fireplace remodels becoming a trend, many are looking to transform their living space. If you're thinking your fireplace needs a face lift, going from wood-burning to gas is a great way to crank up the appeal and functionality of your cozy centerpiece. Whether you're looking for a greener way to heat your home or simply revamping your hearth, we're breaking down what it takes to make the change.
Disclaimer: Starfire Direct recommends that your fire feature installation be completed by a licensed or certified professional. Starfire Direct, Inc assumes no liability for any damage to personal property or physical injury. Always refer to local building codes and regulations prior to attempting any installation.
Prepping Your Fireplace
After cleaning your fireplace, coat the inside with heat resistant paint to enhance its appearance.
Before you jump into the alterations, you must prepare your fireplace for new beginnings. First, ensure you have a functioning flue and proper venting that is in good condition. Also, if your fireplace does not have the appropriate gas lines, seek a professional for installation.
Be sure to put down a drop cloth so that none of the soot and other particles from your fireplace get outside of the opening. Remove any doors or screens so you have full and free access to the inside of your fireplace. Next, remove any existing racks, wood, and other debris that remain in the hearth. Once you have rid the inside of your fireplace of all dust and dirt, a bit of heat-resistant paint can really amp up the aesthetic. This also creates a fantastic backdrop to show off your new fireside focal point.
Installing Your Burner
If you have a ventless fireplace, you can install this Empire Comfort Systems 18" Loft Series Vent-Free Burner.
After your fireplace is spick and span, you'll need to attach a burner to the gas pipe. Before doing so, ensure that your flue is propped partially open with a damper clamp, so your fireplace can properly ventilate. Using the connectors and adapters that come with your burner, you will be able to install the gas burner. Watch our instructional video below for more details.
When choosing your gas burner, there are a few things to consider. The type of burner you need is mainly contingent on which fire media you plan on using. Style can also play a large role when it comes to fitting in with the rest of your decor. If you have a rustic or traditional home, we would recommend installing a gas log burner. This type of burner acts as a bed for your gas log set.
Let one of our experts show you how to properly install the American Fire Glass 18" Stainless Steel "H" Burner.
If you would like to be able to hide your burner or you plan on incorporating a more modern look into your fireplace, there are a few options to consider. The H-burner is quite popular in fireplaces due to its ideal shape and ability to be concealed under any variety of fire glass or other media. In addition, the beautiful dispersion it gives your flame makes for a dazzling display.
A pan burner gives your fireplace a neater, more simplistic style. This model usually features legs to support the pan and media. Place your fire glass or logs into the pan to elevate your clean and contemporary fireplace arrangement. Another handy way to present your luminous new fireplace is with a fire glass burner. This type of burner lays flat inside the hearth and is structurally ideal for filling with your desired shade of fire glass for a sparking finish.
Choosing your Media
Smoldering River Rock Fire Stones and Pacific Blue Reflective Fire Glass.
After you have your burner in place, it is time to add your media. Like I mentioned before, your fire media will completely depend on what mood you would like to set for your home. If you want a luxurious and modern fireplace, fire glass is the perfect choice. Even when your fireplace is unlit, the glass will shine and accent your color palette seamlessly. Coordinating your glass with your decor will also incorporate a personalized touch to your hearth to bring the entire room together.
If you have your heart set on the visual appeal that natural stone or rock provide, there are plenty of ways to go about it. Fireplace stones, rocks, balls, and other shapes come in convenient sets to place inside or around your burner. Lava rocks are jagged and textured, so they work well within edgy or contemporary atmospheres. Smooth river rocks are ideal for neutral and calm environments whereas various fire shapes are more structured and tend to look better in a modern setting.
If you'd like to keep the appearance of a wood-burning fireplace without all the cleanup, adding gas logs atop your burner is an excellent solution. These life-like logs come in different sizes, arrangements, and natural wood shades. To build on the effect, adorn your fireplace with ceramic acorns, wood chunks, and even realistic crackler boxes to get the full effect of roaring and popping lumber.
You now have an incredible gas fireplace! Finish off your masterpiece with glass doors so that when your fire is out, the heat stays in. Time to kick back on the sofa with a drink and enjoy the warmth and comfort of your improved living space. If at any time during this process, you need some advice or a professional, please feel free to call (866) 578-8538, email us by filling out this simple form, or chat with one of our experts live on the Starfire Direct website.
Header Image: A gas fireplace installed by Starfire Direct using an H-burner.
