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

Before we dive into the pros and cons of a fireplace and an insert, let us first talk about what each of them is. There needs to be more clarity with our customers as to which of the two is best suited for them.

traditional fireplace in Trenton NJFireplace- A fireplace is a structure built into a home and usually made of stone, brick, or metal designed to contain a fire. Newer models are very heat efficient. They come in many different designs to fit into any home decor.

Fireplace Insert – A fireplace insert is quite different than a fireplace. An insert is made to make heating much more efficient. In older homes, the fireplace no longer supplies the best efficiency for heating the home. An insert can be put into the existing spot where the fireplace was. An insert comes in many different styles and decors to suit your needs. A fireplace insert is installed into an existing fireplace. It will be smaller than the initial fireplace that already exists.

Fireplace

  • Pros
    • There is no other experience than sitting in front of a wood-burning fireplace. Enjoying the snap, crackle, and pop of wood burning. The atmosphere that comes with an open hearth. A gathering place for family and friends.
    • Heating source. In some parts of the United States, a fireplace may be just for aesthetics. If you live in the south there may be a fall night when the temperatures drop and on occasion you may burn a fire. But in the northeast and northern parts of the country, we use the fireplace for secondary and sometimes primary heat. 
  • Cons
    • Maintenance. The overall impact and cost of maintaining a fireplace can be costly. Yearly chimney sweeps and inspections. Plus, the upkeep as the fireplace ages.
    • Gaps in brick and masonry will allow heat to escape and let cold air in. This will cause more and more expenses to keep the fireplace running efficiently.

Fireplace Insert

  • Pros
    • You can have a fireplace in an older building that may not be suitable for chimney use.
    • Efficiency. An insert is much more efficient than a masonry fireplace. New technology has perfected the efficiency rating, making an insert a very popular choice for many homeowners. 

Whether you are a homeowner looking for new options or are in the market for a home. Mercer County Chimney Service can help you with your decision. 

Professional Chimney Services in Chesterfield Township NJThe Fireplace & Insert Experts

We are a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified and a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). Our fully licensed, insured and trained chimney technicians handle chimney sweeping, cleaning, and tough chimney problems.

This includes tuckpointing, chimney construction, chimney venting, chimney pipe, chimney crown repair, chimney cap installation, chimney chase cover, chimney liner replacement or repair, leaky chimney repairs, fireplace restorations, chimney restoration, masonry services, chimney damper repairs, smoky chimneys, smelly chimneys, loose mortar on the chimney and any other chimney or fireplace services you need.

Call Mercer County Chimney Service, we will be happy to set up an appointment for your inspection. Our trained experts will give you all the options needed to make an educated decision as to the work that may need to be done on your chimney.