Let There Be Fire

It is safe to say, when presenting or describing their log home or timber frame home dream, EVERY client has a vision of the perfect fireplace. Many times, more than one. If our log home floorplans were jigsaw puzzles, many of the pieces would be fireplace, indoor and out…

Log gazebo with fireplace

Fireplaces generally fall into one of these categories: masonry, firebox, zero-clearance (also known as pre-fabricated or manufactured), and gas. Of course, each design has its pros and cons. budget, your aesthetic sense, and the and architectural style.

Log home masonry fireplace

Masonry

These are the real deal. When the average person envisions a fireplace, this is the kind that comes to mind. A full masonry is in most cases, the most expensive option. A masonry fireplace consists of a brick or stone firebox, a brick or stone chimney, and, more often than not, a wood mantel.

Log home enclosed firebox fireplace

Firebox

Rather than being open, these indoor fireplaces are enclosed. Traditionally, this type of fireplace features a large glass panel enabling you to enjoy the ambiance of fire as it burns. This design is such that you have less heat escaping up the chimney and more entering the room so you stay warmer while still having the cozy feel of a wood burning fire.

THE New Log Cabin zero-clearance fireplace

Zero-Clearance

In comparison with masonry fireplaces, zero-clearance fireplaces are much easier and less expensive to install, requiring significantly less construction work. Because they are lightweight and have firebox enclosures that always remain cool, zero-clearance fireplaces can sit directly over hardwood floors and within a few inches of existing walls. Wood-burning, gas, and electrically powered zero-clearance models are all available, with the difference between them largely being a matter of lifestyle and personal preference. Normally, zero-clearance fireplaces vent through a lightweight metal tube that extends through the ceiling. Some models, however, contain an external air-venting feature, one that draws air from the outdoors. By not having to draw air from the room, these fireplaces can operate up to 70 percent more efficiently. But whereas zero-clearance fireplaces can usually be installed anywhere, these more efficient designs must be situated on an exterior wall.

Log home gas fireplace

Gas

While they don’t offer the sounds and aroma of a wood fire, gas fireplaces create lovely ambiance and often supply more warmth than wood does. Gas fireplaces are much easier to start and there’s no cleanup or danger of fire from errant embers to worry about. Environmental friendliness is another reason why gas fireplaces have become more popular. A wood-burning fireplace pollutes; a gas fireplace pollutes less. Like their zero-clearance cousins, gas fireplaces don’t need a ton of room

Note that unvented gas fireplaces are available and increasingly common.

Timber style home fireplace

Log home kitchen masonry wood-burning pizza oven

“Fire is the most tolerable third party.”

~Henry David Thoreau