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What To Consider When Building A New Chimney

Do you wish you could sit in front of a roaring fire to keep warm this winter? Have a fireplace in the living room but wish there was another one in a different part of the house? There’s still time to have a new chimney system built before cold weather arrives!

Building a new chimney is a major undertaking – but also comes with major payoff. While there are a number of things that should be considered before building a new fireplace and chimney, there are also a number of benefits.

Things to consider before building a new chimney

The choice to build a new fireplace or chimney is not one that should be taken lightly. While there are a number of benefits, it is still a major construction project. The following are a few of the things that should be considered before making the decision to build a new chimney system.

• Fuel choice. Wood? Gas? Pellets? Coal? Choosing the right fuel source is the first step in determining what kind of chimney system you need.
• Aesthetics. Building a new chimney allows homeowners unprecedented choice when it comes to designing the aesthetics of their new fireplace system. By working with our team of expert masons, you can design a fireplace that meets your heating needs – and fits into the style of your home.
• Building materials. Budget, style, and fuel source are just a few of the things that should be considered when choosing the building materials for a new chimney. Natural stone and bricks are the most popular building materials due to their durability and ability to withstand heat.

Benefits of building a new chimney

Building a new chimney system is a major undertaking that reaps major rewards. The following are three of the many reasons to build a new fireplace system.

1. Add value. There’s no way around it – building a new chimney and fireplace is a major investment. However, it also has major returns. The National Association of Realtors found that 40% of potential buyers would pay extra for a home with a fireplace. Likewise, a survey by the National Center for Real Estate Research found that “fireplaces have a strong, positive effect on selling price with each fireplace adding about 12 percent.”
2. Make damaged chimneys useable again. Chimney fires, settling, or years of neglect can make chimneys unsafe to use. By choosing to tear down and rebuild the chimney system, homeowners can make it safe to use their fireplace again.
3. Stand out from the crowd. A survey by the National Association of Homebuilders found that fireplaces are the second most requested home feature; adding one on to your home can make it more attractive to potential buyers if or when you decide to move.

There is still plenty of time to get a new chimney built so you can enjoy the benefits of a roaring fire all winter long. For more information about building the fireplace of your dreams, contact the masonry experts at Clean Sweeps of Michigan to set up a free consultation.

Looking to Add a Brick Chimney to Your Home or Business? Let Us Help!

Is your home or business missing the fireplace of your dreams? At Clean Sweeps of Michigan, our staff of dedicated, skilled masons specializes in new chimney construction. We can help you build the beautiful stone or brick chimney system you’ve been dreaming of!

Benefits of building a new chimney

Fireplaces are one of the most sought-after home features. 70 percent of real estate agents say that a fireplace adds value to your home, while 40 percent of buyers say that they will pay more for a home with a fireplace. Building a new fireplace can increase your home’s value. There are other benefits too including:

• Creating a cozy feeling in a living space or bedroom
• Provides additional warmth in the event of winter power outages
• Helps lower heating costs

Considerations when building a new chimney

Building an entirely new brick or stone chimney system allows you to design your dream fireplace. The following are a few things to consider when preparing to build a new chimney system.

• Fuel source. Burning different fuels requires different venting systems. Choosing your fuel source – as well as the type of fireplace or heating appliance – will influence the design of the chimney.
• Clearance from other combustible materials. Proper fireplace construction requires certain clearances between the chimney and other combustibles. Working with an experienced mason who is familiar with building codes and clearances ensures your new chimney will be safely constructed. If a beautiful fireplace cannot withstand the heat of a fire, it becomes an useless decoration.
• Chimney height. In order to vent safely and efficiently, chimneys need to be built to certain height requirements. Chimneys should be at least 3 feet above the roof and 2 feet higher than any other surrounding structures within 10 feet. This 10 foot-2 foot-3 foot rule ensures your chimney are able to draw in air for the fire while smoke and gas safely vent out.
• Building materials. While there are a number of materials available for fireplace and chimney construction, all building materials react differently to the exposure of heat, moisture, and the elements. Our masons can help you choose durable building materials that match your style and budget.
• Style and design. Do you want your new fireplace to be rustic, sleek or contemporary? Building a chimney system allows you to customize the design of your new heating appliance. This gives you the freedom to mix your style and functionality for a dream fireplace to warm your home or business for many years.

Contact us today!

If you are dreaming about adding a new chimney to your home or office, let the expert masons at Clean Sweeps of Michigan turn your dreams into a reality! Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about the benefits of building a new chimney.