Installing a fireplace is a common dream home improvement or remodeling project.  If you are thinking about adding a fireplace during remodeling, there are many choices and options to be considered.

Pellet Stoves

Fireplaces that use wood or pellets as fuel sources provide the unique wood-burning smell that some people desire.  In many parts of the country wood or pellets are an economical fuel choice as well.  The downsides to this type of fireplace are that getting and storing the wood or pellets takes a lot of work and the heat tends to be uneven.  It takes a lot of practice to know how much fuel will produce the desired amount of heat.  Then maintaining that heat level also requires attention.  These types of fireplaces also require more cleaning and maintenance than gas fireplaces.

Gas Fireplaces

Many people have turned to gas fireplaces due to their minimal maintenance requirements and reliable heat output.  While remodeling, you can pipe the fuel directly to the fireplace. Most come with a remote control to start or turn off the flame, and built-in thermostats control the heat output to help maintain a comfortable level. Talk about convenience!

If you are adding a fireplace as part of a home improvement project and your house has more than one floor, think about placement of the fireplace and the possibility that you can use one chimney for a fireplace on each level.  Less remodeling will be required if you can “stack” the fireplaces, and you will stretch your home improvement dollar. With any fuel type, fireplaces should have fans in order to distribute the heat throughout the house.  A humidifier may also be needed if your fireplace becomes your main source of heat.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flikr.com/photos/regencyfire/3369268420/)