It is finally fall. The air is cooler, and the days are getting shorter.
It is the perfect season for enjoying the fireplace!
THE MAGIC FLAME
Of course a fireplace brings warmth to a chilly morning or evening, but in reality, it does so much more. The timeless quality of the light coming from the fire is simply magical as it adds an ever-changing glow to the surroundings. The flickering flame seems to be alive as it twists and turns and changes shape. Like flowing water, the flame is never the same shape twice. Truly amazing and mesmerizing.
FIREPLACES IN HOUSES
Fireplaces have long been a tradition in our homes. Initially, they provided most of the heat in our homes and large estates had fireplaces in all the main rooms. Of course, those large estates also had help stocking and cleaning out the fireplaces. We no longer need fireplaces to heat our entire home, but they are still sought after for that enchanting quality of warmth and light.
CHANGING FUEL SOURCE
Wood used to be the primary source of fuel for our fireplaces. Indeed, some today still prefer a wood burning fire because of the smell and distinctive snap, crackle, pop sound. However, a wood burning fireplace comes with several negatives. First, there’s the smoke. Secondly, they are constantly in need of more wood to keep the fire going, and clean up afterwards is a chore. The introduction of gas – whether propane or natural gas – has become the de facto low maintenance alternative to wood. Many gas fireplaces come with a remote or button to start and stop them, making lighting a fire quick and easy. Now that it is no longer an effort to build a fire, many homeowners find themselves using their fireplaces more often!
LIGHT WITHOUT HEAT
Alcohol (ethanol & gel) is also used for fireplaces. These fireplaces don’t give off the same amount of heat as a gas fireplace which makes them perfect for warmer climates. Electric linear fireplaces are also gaining popularity. Both of these are perfect for adding the ambiance of a fire without the heat.
OUTDOOR LIVING
The fire pit or outdoor fireplace has helped transform outdoor living. This wonderful gathering place provides just enough heat to keep everyone toasty. A wood burning fire pit does produce smoke making chair placement critical depending on the wind. If that is a concern, these outdoor units are also available with gas or propane options eliminating the smoke factor.
Housing has long moved past needing to burn wood to heat a home, but nothing brings people together quite like the warm glow and comfort of a flickering fire. What better way to welcome family and friends, particularly on a lovely fall day.
Adapted from Housing Design Matters Blog