What’s The Difference Between A Fireplace And An Insert?

This topic comes up often at our shop. What is the difference between a fireplace and an insert? The next question would be, what is best for my family and me? To make the decision, you need some education. You came to the right place.

Fireplace Insert:  An insert is an appliance that is made to be put into an existing fireplace. It can be wood, wood-burning, or gas insert. This is the easiest option for upgrading your fireplace. With so much new technology, this can be an efficient alternative to your conventional fireplace. You will find that inserts are much smaller than traditional fireplaces. The viewing area of an insert is much smaller, and many folks are turned off on inserts because of this. People usually look into getting an insert if their fireplace is inefficient. They are looking for a better or alternate heat source. When you are looking for an upgrade and a better source of efficient heating, an insert is an excellent idea if you have an existing fireplace. 

Fireplace: A traditional fireplace is a sign of beauty. It adds dramatically to the ambiance of your home. A room with a fireplace is used as a meeting place. A place where celebrations are conducted. The warmth that a fireplace brings to a home is unmatched. The construction of a new fireplace or a reconstruction of an existing one can be a big project. If your home does not have a fireplace, you may opt to have a professional chimney company build one in your home. You can choose from a brick-and-mortar fireplace or a prefabricated one. A prefabricated fireplace would be built within a frame. Completing the project with drywall, stonework, or tile. Plan for this project to take a few weeks to complete.

There are pros and cons of each option. As mentioned above, a fireplace insert is smaller in size. The viewing area will be limited. However, the efficiency of an insert is excellent. The cost of energy nowadays has gone up over the years. An insert can also be gas. A gas insert is much cleaner than a wood-burning insert. No storage needs. The ease of turning a switch is important to many. This may answer your concerns about how to have a better energy source as well.

If you don’t have a fireplace in your home, it can be added, but at a cost. The maintenance will be more than an insert as well. Plan on yearly inspections and chimney sweeps. Not everyone is willing to tackle a big project like adding a fireplace. There are other options for alternative heat. Contact Northeastern Chimney for some options that may work for you and your family. 

Whether you choose a fireplace insert, a rebuild, or a new fireplace in your home, contact Northeastern Chimney for all your chimney needs. Our technicians will be happy to help with any questions you have. 

Professionals suggest conducting an annual Chimney sweep and inspection. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost much less than letting the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.