The process that must be undertaken when building a fireplace can vary depending very much on the type of fireplace you have in mind. There are kits available that make the process reasonably straight forward however, if you are contemplating building a fireplace from concept to completion it becomes considerably more complicated and most homeowners turn to a professional fireplace builder in Manhattan.
Regardless of the approach you take there is a need for pre-construction planning such as determining the location and space available for the fireplace and obviously, the design. Installing a fireplace is a job that requires careful planning and to do it properly you need to be ready with the proper tools, materials and design.
Building a custom design fireplace from scratch is not easy and it is wise to turn this project over to a fireplace builder in Manhattan who is fully conversant with not only how to construct the fireplace but also the safety aspects and the possible need for permits.
A typical fireplace has an outer shell which is traditionally made from brick or masonry as well as an inner shell that contains the fire. The entire structure sits on a foundation and includes an ash box for clean-out purposes. The shells are extremely important as they protect the area surrounding the finished fireplace from fire, they must be completely free of any defects. The bottom of the firebox is the “inner hearth” while the “outer hearth” protects the floor directly in front of the fireplace. As well as the firebox, the inner shell includes the smoke chamber and flue lining. For the fireplace to function properly the flue lining and smoke chamber must be properly sized.
The outer shell is the visual part of the fireplace and although the common material is brick or masonry, other materials can be used. Similar in construction to a window or door, the upper masonry must be supported by a lintel. The professional fireplace builder in Manhattan knows the specifics of the throat, smoke chamber and the smoke shelf as well as the flue which is that component of a fireplace that allows air in and the smoke out.
A custom built fireplace normally requires the construction of a brick chimney which is also a component that takes time and skills and is usually left to the professional who has constructed the fireplace in its entirety.
If you are considering a fireplace for your home you are wise to hire a professional fireplace builder in Manhattan as the process is complex and the need for absolute integrity is obvious. You are invited to discuss your thoughts with the professionals at TC Builders Corp.
