Different Types of Fireboxes
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What exactly is the firebox? The firebox is essentially the heart of your fireplace—where the fire lives. It can come in various sizes and depending on its capacity, can hold different depths of wood or other burning material. Based on the type of fireplace you have, it allows a range of fuels to be used i.e. natural gas, electric etc. The customization of your firebox is what brings additional character to your décor. Use a selection of attractive fireplace surrounds in front of the firebox to complement your décor and the firebox style.
THE TWO TYPES OF FIREBOXES
There are two types of fireboxes that rule the fireplace world: pre-fab metal fireboxes and masonry fireboxes.
Pre-Fab Metal Fireboxes
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There are four general types of pre-fab metal fireboxes:
- Natural gas
Gas fireboxes are a reliable way to provide consistent heat while beautifying your hearth and home. You can use fake logs, decorative modern glass chips or stones behind a sealed glass face. Natural gas, as opposed to propane gas, uses gas purchased from public utilities.
- Electric
Fill your room with the cozy comfort of fire with the simple flip of a switch when you have an electric firebox. You can also use fake logs and fake flames that look realistic with an electric firebox. Inside the electric fireplace, there are metal coils that heat up automatically when the appliance is plugged into an electrical socket and turned on. In addition to the coils, there’s also a fan inside the electric fireplace. The fan, which is sometimes referred to as a blower motor, pushes the heat outward into your room.
- Propane Gas
An alternative to natural gas, propane gas fireboxes are fueled by propane in tanks you would purchase from a store. Propane fireplaces are an option for those who do not want to rely on their natural gas supplier for fireplace fuel. It is also a great alternative for those who live in remote areas and do not want to use or have a wood-burning firebox.
- Wood-burning
If a natural look and feel is what you seek, opt for a wood burning firebox. Wood burning fireplaces bring the definitive charm of a timber fire to your home—the earthy scents and the memories associated with a wood-burning fire are hard to compare.
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Masonry Fireboxes
Masonry fireplaces, built entirely of bricks, blocks or stone and mortar, are massive structures often weighing between 6 and 7 tons! They are aesthetically pleasing, long lasting, and add real value to your home. With a little care and periodic maintenance they can literally give you a lifetime of enjoyment. As masonry fireplaces are built on site and brick by brick, they give you the option to design it as you like. You can choose from a variety of brick patterns within the firebox for design. Functionally, you can include openings for a gas line on either side of a wood burning firebox if you change your mind down the road.
The combination of fireplace surround and your firebox makes for a stunning piece that both enhances and warms your room. Contact us today to find a cast stone fireplace that you can easily customize with your firebox of choice!