Which fireplace should I choose for my living room?

A fireplace installed in the living room creates a wonderful atmosphere in the room, one that encourages relaxation and tranquillity. When choosing a fireplace, it is important to bear in mind that it is an additional source of heating which can either work in conjunction with the main heating system or provide only a little warmth. You can read more about the key selection criteria in the text below.

Types of fireplaces

An open fireplace serves only as an interior design feature, as its heating efficiency is low. Heat escapes along with the smoke through the chimney. When installing one, the combustion chamber and hood are built from bricks or fireclay tiles. Insert fireplaces can operate within an air heating system (DGP) or a water-based central heating system (water jacket). The heat generated can then heat not only the room in which the fireplace is located, but also other rooms. The energy is then distributed by gravity or by forced air. This solution is recommended for those who, in addition to the aesthetics of their living room, wish to provide an additional form of heating.

Types of fireplace inserts

The choice of a fireplace insert depends on several factors, including combustion efficiency. The best models achieve an efficiency of over 80% when operating with a restricted air supply, which means low fuel consumption relative to high heat output. The fireplace should generate a heat output suited to the room’s requirements. However, this is not the most important factor if the fireplace is merely a decorative feature rather than an additional heating source for the living room. Inserts can be divided into two types. Cast iron inserts are highly durable, but they may crack in the event of sudden temperature changes. They are usually made from several components. The second group of inserts is made from steel. It does not retain heat as well as cast iron, which is why the combustion process is often improved, for example, by means of a secondary combustion chamber. The insert is lined with fireclay or vermiculite plates, which may also crack over time.

Ways to finish a fireplace

The element that has the greatest impact on the aesthetics of a living room fireplace is the surround. The most commonly used finishing materials include:

• marble,
• sandstone,
• granite,
• soapstone,
• clinker brick.

Usually, only the base and the surround of the hearth are built. The fireplace is intended to be a distinctive feature of the living room, but it must not overwhelm the space; therefore, the sections above the mantelpiece are clad with calcium silicate boards, which can be finished in any way, just like plasterboard.