Chimney addition to increase value and reduce energy costs

Adding a new addition to a home for luxury or functionality is quite a different question in which many factors may be involved. Do you want something to add comfort? How about an addition that will increase the energy independence of the home? Do you intend to offset what you spent on the expansion when you sell your home? A fireplace, whether it’s a gas fireplace or a classic wood-burning fireplace model, will accomplish all of these ends for a comprehensive addition to the home that you can be proud of.

A fireplace is a great luxury for a homeowner. Whether you’re adding an aesthetic sensibility to your living room or looking to add an investment that will lower energy bills and increase the value of your home, a modern fireplace design will be a very beneficial purchase. The following is a summary of some of the best reasons to install a modern fireplace or a gas fireplace in your home, and some tips to take care of the investment.

Comfort

Does deep winter conjure up the imagination of families gathered to spend time around a heating duct? How about a propane heater? There is a particular novelty and comfort that comes from a clean burning log and a strong mantle of stone. Fireplaces are a luxurious addition that are suitable for setting the scene and providing discreet, relaxing entertainment for any member of a family. Make sure the fireplace is regularly cleaned and repaired to ensure the fire always burns clean, safe, and odor free.

Value

As such a fireplace is a luxury addition, the presence of one can add immediate value to your home. The home sales market is currently in a buyer’s market position; Homeowners looking to sell need to find something to set their home apart and grab the attention of buyers.

Conventional wisdom for adding an addition that will pay off through home value is to focus on a few higher return areas, including bathroom renovations, kitchen renovations, and luxury renovations (like a pool or fireplace). In terms of a fireplace, the increased value and the speed at which your home could potentially sell will more than pay for the initial cost of a fireplace.

energy savings

Adding a fireplace to your home goes a long way in making sure your home stays warm with minimal dollar investment. However, this is only true if you put a bit of effort into making sure it stays efficient. If a fire starts in one room, it could draw heat from the rest of the house; unless the owner is careful to avoid it.

A smart homeowner will understand the importance of maintaining thermal wrap to limit a home’s energy consumption. Thermal wrap retains heat within and allows for easy temperature manipulation by limiting the ways heat can transfer out of the wrap space. A managed thermal wrap around an entire home will keep bills and energy down. However, for a room with a fireplace, the wrap should extend into the room itself. Keep the central room with a fireplace isolated from the rest of the house with a thick, sturdy door, and repair any cracks in the walls and paneling. The fireplace will use less energy to heat the room (remember to turn off a gas fireplace after lighting the log), and the house as a whole will not be affected.