Fireplace Remodeling Contractor Los Angeles

Watching the Yuletide Log video even with the crackling of the logs in full surround sound does not provide the satisfying experience of a real fireplace with the aromas and heat to warm up a chilly night even in Los Angeles. The eggnog (or hot chocolate with marshmallows for the kids) just seems to taste better in front of a real glowing fire. So, you dream for those Norman Rockwell like scenes, but those dreams are shattered when you see the condition of your dirty soot-filled fireplace with the broken mantel and empty beer cans thrown in the fire pit. You promise the family that next year will be different and thus begins the fireplace remodel project.

Smog in Los Angeles has been an issue since 1943. Emissions from internal combustion engines are the main culprit but wood burning fireplaces are a minor contributor. You will need to check with the local authorities as to when wood burning is allowed because air quality legislation might play a role in your decision to use wood or gas or a combo of both to create the fireplace flame. This article will focus more on the overall appearance of the fireplace, so the environmental concerns will be set aside for now.

The traditional red brick fireplace can have a dominating effect on the room

If you wish to keep that look, use a water and vinegar solution, a stiff brush and some old fashioned “elbow grease” to restore the brick and clean the sooty mantel and firepit. If this works, then your restoration can be completed with a new set of fireplace tools and matching fire screen.

If you opt for a completely different look for your fireplace, the job to overhaul will no longer be a DIY project and will require the need of a fireplace remodeling contractor. The contractor can help you narrow down your choices and offer suggestions that you may not be aware of.

The following is a list defining the various components of a common fireplace. It will help you have a more meaningful conversation with your fireplace remodeling contractor:

• Firebox – The space that encloses the fire and collects any smoke to send up the chimney.
• The Surround – Just as the name indicates, the surround covers and protects the walls and is made of stone or bricks.
• Mantel (or mantle) – This is where you hang the Christmas stocking and place pictures of deceased relatives. It is considered the decorative top of the surround.
• Hearth – This is the area that extends out from the fireplace and is made from fireproof materials.
• Flue – Located above the firebox the flue serves as an escape route for smoke, hot air and gasses to the chimney. The chimney serves to channel the smoke to the atmosphere and to protect the surrounding structures from heat damage.
• Smoke Chamber / Shelf – The smoke chamber is the connection between the flue and the fireplace. The shelf prevents any sudden downdraft from entering the room and blocks rainfall that enters the chimney from landing directly in the firebox.
• Damper – this is a moveable barricade that when closed will separate the firebox from the areas above. Its main purpose is to prevent air from going up into the chimney when there is no fire in the firebox.

There are many other accessories such as andirons, doors, mesh spark screens that are part of the fireplace system

Discuss these with your Fireplace remodeling contractor to decide the best style for your room. One final note - next Christmas Eve, after you spent the day sitting around your new fireplace and have put the kids to bed, be sure to set out the milk and cookies and keep the fireplace flue open so Santa has no trouble entering your house. And please, discard the Yuletide log video or risk getting a lump of coal from Mr. Claus placed in the stocking hanging from your new mantel.

We, at Los Angeles Home Redelers, pride ourselves on being professional, reliable, and affordable. We can help you remodel your fireplace. We are fully licensed and fully insured. Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation at 1-818-532-0482