Thursday, November 20, 2008

Products And Services

Read on for information and tips to help determine the best fireside fit for your home. Be sure to consult your architect, decorator and Pisgah Fireplaces, Etc. early in the design stage of new construction or remodeling.

First ask yourself these questions…

  • Do you want fire primarily for its beauty or its warmth?
  • Do you want heat during power outages?
  • How particular are you about air quality and noise factor?

Now read on to help determine your fireside style…

Wood-Burning Fireplace

The oldest and most traditional hearth product is the wood fireplace. The factory-built fireplaces of today offer advantages in price, installation and convenience. For those that enjoy the crackling sounds and soothing smells of firewood, and don’t mind the chopping, hauling and cleanup, a wood-burning fireplace is still a good choice.

  • Chimney system required to accommodate wood-burning emission particles.
  • Heat output/burn time regulated only by adding/subtracting wood or restricting combustion air flow.
  • Less efficient in warming a room than gas.
  • More effort and cleanup involved, i.e. wood-chopping, hauling, ashes, etc…
  • Natural wood-burning smell and comforting crackle are essential to some people.

Gas Fireplace

Easy, safe and efficient, gas fireplaces are surpassing all others as the fireside solution of choice for both new home construction and remodeling.

  • You can enjoy a fire at the touch of a switch, thermostat or remote control.
  • Gas direct vent fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere.
  • Direct vent gas fireplaces, inserts and stoves have a sealed combustion chamber. Combustion air is drawn from outside the home and byproducts are discarded outside.
  • Burn either natural gas or propane (LP)

What is a Direct Vent Fireplace?

Direct Vent fireplaces are highly efficient, sealed systems that can minimize heat loss that would normally occur through a chimney. Byproducts of combustion are isolated from the home as they exit to the outside. Direct Vent Fireplaces can be vented horizontally to an outside wall or vertically at the roof.

What is a Vent-Free Gas Fireplace?

Vent-free systems are designed for maximum efficiency and require no flue. Burners provide clean heat to your home. They require sufficient combustion air and should be located to areas spacious enough as not to become too warm.

What is a Fireplace Insert?

Just as its name indicates, a fireplace insert is an appliance that is inserted within the cavity of an existing masonry or factory-built fireplace to convert it from one fuel source to another.

Electric Fireplace

Simulates a wood fire but without the chimney, venting system or gas line installation.

  • Heater Built-in
  • Installation is Simple
  • Units are Portable

Gas and Wood Stoves

If you are interested in adding old-world charm, character and detail to your environment, you may consider installing a wood-burning or gas stove. Many models can be installed almost anywhere, with no need for additional materials or construction and they offer an effective heat source.

  • Gas stoves offer the beauty and warmth of a roaring fire with the flick of a switch.
  • Many wood stove models feature top loading systems for safety and ease, or can be installed into an existing masonry fireplace.

Catalytic vs. Non-catalytic

Catalytic is short for Catalytic Combustor. This device is placed near the exit of the stove and burns any gases that pass through it. Any stove without this device is considered a Non Catalytic. Both systems are approved by the EPA.

Catalytic System

A catalytic system in a stove works to reduce emissions. A catalytic combustor burns the smoke (unburned fuel) within the stove, generating more heat, and less smoke. Catalytic models offer a larger firebox with a less active, but more even fire. Your fuel load lasts longer with less tending. If you are a serious wood-burner searching for long-lasting heat, this may be the choice for you.

Non-Catalytic System

If high-blaze factor appeals to you, you might consider a stove that uses a non-catalytic system. This system relies on high temperatures in the firebox and metered oxygen to consume the maximum fuel value from each piece of wood. Non-catalytic modes are simple to operate and provide a dramatic fire, though they tend to require a bit more tending.

Gas Logs

By using gas logs you can achieve a dynamic, realistic wood-like flame, without the hassles associated with natural wood. Gas logs are made of either cement or ceramic fiber and designed with real-wood characteristics in mind. They come in both vented and vent-free models.

Mantels

Your fireplace mantel and mantel surround should be the crowning glory on your hearth system. Materials like marble, stone, tile, wood, brick, iron, and brass can transform what was once an empty canvas into a dramatic focal point for your room.

Gas Grills

Whether you’re a backyard gourmet or burgers and fries are more your speed, there is a gas grill for you. The outdoor chef has more options than ever for preparing delicious meals in great style, convenience and comfort. In addition to the more familiar grill features, some models include rotisserie burners, cast iron griddles, smoker boxes for presoaked wood chips or herbs, and many more extras.

And finally, come see us at Pisgah Insulation , Fireplaces & Garage Doors of NC. We’ll help you take the final steps toward realizing your Fireside Dreams.