Your Fireplace Questions Asked and Answered
plus common mistakes to avoid and our sources
First things first—some fireplace jargon so you know what we are talking about…
Now let’s get to your questions!
FIREPLACE MATERIALS/INSERTS
#1 Best fireplace inserts?
The Birmingham Fireplace is a great one for a more traditional home that wants a wood burning/gas option. For more customized sizes we recommend Isokern and if you are looking for both traditional and contemporary, Ortal has some great options. In my home, I used the Heat & Glo because I wanted a double-sided fireplace and this was the best option I could find. For a standard glass-front gas insert my go-to is the Heat & Glo True Series.
#2 Do you ever use refractory panels inside the firebox? If so, what brand/make?
We have done it in the past to conserve budget, however it isn’t typically our first choice. In a modern home it could work well. As far as brands go, this is something you would probably want to talk to your rep. or vendor about because there are so many regulations.
#3 Favorite brick source for fireplaces?