The Patio Expert Pages

The rise of the electric fireplace heaters has ushered in new methods for heating homes apart from using conventional fireplaces. The electric hearth is also giving homeowners the opportunity to contribute in saving the environment because this type of fireplace does not use wood or gas as fuel, thus minimizing air pollutants.

Even though the electric fireplace cost a bit more than other devices that perform the same function of warming a home, it is undoubtedly more chic and provides the house with an air of style that other electric heaters can't match. But why go for an electric fireplace when you can get a conventional fireplace installed?

Well, electric fireplaces may be expensive, but it won't cost as much as getting a traditional fireplace built. The reason behind this is that you will need to take down a portion of a wall and the ceiling just to get the firebox, mantel and chimney of a conventional hearth in place. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, do not require any remodeling to install. Just set them against walls, put on fireplace surrounds, and plug them in.

Another endearing quality of the electric fireplace is that it can be personalized with the use of electric fireplace mantels or fireplace surrounds. Conventional hearths have mantels, too, but these are usually permanent in nature. The only way to change them is through demolition of the original structure and the construction of a new one. A few modern hearths, however, can be outfitted with surrounds.

There are a good number of fireplace surrounds models on the market, either at the nearest home improvement store or an online store, with materials varying from wood to plaster to stone and styles ranging from antique to rustic to modern. The electric fireplace mantel, usually made of wood like pine and mahogany, is a cinch to set up.

Fireplace surrounds vary in design and are not limited to just featuring mantels, frontages and screens. A few models have extensions that double as shelves and other types of storage spaces. Mirrors are also a common feature of surrounds. If you really want to make an impact with your choice of electric heater, then choose the finest surround that you can afford and put it on your electric fireplace.