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Warm Up Your Sacramento Fireplace Or Install A New One With These Tips

(credit: Thinkstock)
(credit: Thinkstock)

Winter has arrived in Sacramento, bringing with it the cold, frosty air. There's no better cure for the chill of a winter night than sitting in front of a roaring fire. For those considering installing one, fireplaces and stoves are great for adding warmth to the home and can help lower heating bills. For those who already have a fireplace that has begun looking drab, now is a great time to give it a facelift. Many Sacramento residents might even be considering swapping out a wood-burning fireplace for a more energy-efficient gas alternative. Whether looking to upgrade an existing fireplace or install a new one, it's important to consider the following tips and local experts when getting a home ready for winter (and the coziness and comfort that comes with a great-looking fireplace).

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Choosing Which Type Of Fireplace To Install

Fireplaces are a common feature in homes – they are beautiful, add value to a property and can help keep heating costs low. Homeowners have several options when choosing a fireplace: traditional wood-burning, gas, electric, or wood stove. While traditional wood-burning fireplaces are common and what most people think of when imagining a roaring fire, they can pose health hazards and are not very energy-efficient. Most new homes are now built with gas fireplaces because they burn hotter and emit far less pollutants than wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces are not as common, but are a good alternative because they consume little energy, offer adjustable heat levels and do not produce fume, vapors, or smoke. Wood stoves are another great alternative because they can be installed in homes without chimneys, but like traditional fireplaces can pose safety and health hazards and take up more space than a traditional fireplace.

Sacramento Fireplace Installers:


Hours: Mon to Fri- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sun- Closed


Hours: Mon to Sat- 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Getting An Existing Fireplace Winter Ready

Before you strike the match on your fire, it is important to make sure your fireplace is clean and in good working order. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces should be cleaned thoroughly, including the glass, screens, and chimney. If you have a gas fireplace, check to make sure the pilot light is working properly and vacuum out the firebox and heat exchanger. While most home maintenance projects are DIY, fireplace maintenance is best left to a professional.

Related: How To Safely Use Your Fireplace

Sacramento Fireplace Maintenance:


Office hours: Mon to Fri- 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat to Sun- 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hours: Mon to Fri- 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Sprucing Up The Hearth

When getting your fireplace ready for the winter, don't neglect the hearth and mantel. As the focal point of the room, the area surrounding the fireplace adds beauty and drama. The sky is the limit when it comes to fireplaces, but easy and inexpensive updates can make a large difference.

  • Clean the mantel and existing surround thoroughly.
  • Make any needed repairs to the drywall, brick, or paint.
  • Cover the mantel with a fresh coat of paint or stain.  If you have a brick hearth, consider painting it white to brighten the room and give it a clean finish.
  • Add a new façade – cover brick with stone, tile, or marble for a smooth finish.
  • Search antique stores for a new mantel and surround – these pieces often come from older homes and have ornate details.
  • Freshen up décor with flowers, photos, or other collectibles

Sacramento Fireplace Decor:

Hours: Mon to Sat- 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sun- 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hours: Mon to Sat- 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sun- 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Karen Boruff is a freelance writer living in Sacramento. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.


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