Exploring the possibilities for the installation of a new fireplace can raise  a number of questions for homeowners. With 95 years’ experience in the fireplace business, we’ve heard it all. Though every home and client will have unique needs, we have put together a short list of the questions we are asked most often in our consultations.

This content originally appeared in The Neighbours of the Glebe magazine in September, 2018 as an Expert Contributor interview with Jodie Matthiessen –  Hubert’s Fireplace Consultation + Design Owner/Operator.

Where can we put a fireplace?

The location of your fireplace will depend on the purpose of the fireplace. For example, the main room or an open area is the recommended space for the fireplace if you are looking for a zone heating solution in your home. If the vision of your new fireplace is aesthetic or to create a particular ambiance, then you would work within the room you are looking to transform.

What should be considered when deciding between a wood fireplace and a gas fireplace?

Wood is a good heat source when you buy an efficient system. A wood fireplace calls back to a different time and offers the charm of a truly authentic experience. However, authenticity has its costs; it’s not a very controllable heat source and there is more work and tidy up required when bringing wood into your home all winter.

A gas fireplace is much more convenient. Venting is easier, gas is on demand and it burns cleaner than wood. Ninety to 95% of the fireplaces sold are gas units. There are a great variety of gas fireplaces available, some designed to create spectacular flames while others will simply heat your room without the flair.

What kind of maintenance will my fireplace require?

Maintenance and cleaning of a gas fireplace should take place every one to two years, depending on the amount of use. Maintenance of a gas fireplace that is used only occasionally can be stretched out to two years, while a fireplace in regular use should be looked at every year.

Cleaning and maintenance of wood fireplaces should be done by a professional chimney cleaner. If you are unsure of the condition of an existing wood fireplace in your home, a WETT-certified specialist can identify whether your wood fireplace is safe to use.

What options are available if I have an existing fireplace?

If you’re looking to upgrade an existing fireplace, wood or gas fireplace inserts are available in a range of styles and zero-clearance fireplace models do not protrude from the wall or existing opening. A gas insert offers an elegant efficient upgrade from older wood fireplaces.

Team Hubert’s is here to help!

If you have any questions about your existing or dream fireplace, come see us at Hubert’s Fireplace Consultation + Design – our Ottawa showroom staff are always happy to chat and if we’ve said it once, we’ve said it 95 times … it’s never too early to start the conversation about where, when and how we can get a new fireplace in your space!