Fireplace Suites - The Complete Package
A fireplace suite is the complete package; it includes a surround/mantelpiece, hearth and fire all working together to create the centrepiece of your home. Evolution Fires' range of suites are perfect for living rooms as well as bedrooms, extensions and also for bathrooms to create the real flame effect.
Hotels with fireplaces give the impression of warmth and luxury that entices guests to return. Find out how you can bring this feel to your hotel property.
The hearth
The hearth is a platform that is flat at the base of the fireplace. Its purpose is to shield the floor and walls from embers or heat. It is usually made from non-combustible material like stone or brick and extends 16 to 18 inches prior to the firebox. Most wood and gas fireplaces require a hearth, and electric fireplace suites typically do not have one.
As a general rule, fireplace suites consist of four main components; an inset fire (either gas or electric), a surround/mantelpiece, a back panel and the hearth. The four components work together to create a focal point that can enhance the look of any room and make your home appear more welcoming. This is why suites are a great option for anyone looking to revamp their interior and give it a fresh new look.
Suites are available in different designs, colors and finishes to suit any decor. There are also a wide range of options for the type of flame effect, fire and heating output. Conventional fires with gas fuel are ideal for homes with chimneys. However, balanced flue fireplaces are safe to use without chimneys.
Electric fireplace suites are a great alternative for those looking to add a focal point to their living spaces without the hassle of installing traditional wood burners or a gas fire. These suites produce their own heat by a process called convection that draws in cool air and heats it up before venting out into the room. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, these suites don't emit carbon monoxide that can be harmful if inhaled.
The back panel
As the name suggests, a fireplace back panel sits in the back of the fireplace's opening. It helps to create an elegant 'n' shape alongside the surround, mantelpiece and the fire inset. This can be made of a variety of materials that are heat-resistant, including stone and granite.
The back panel is usually included in a fireplace suite which includes a surround, the mantelpiece, and an inset fire appliance. This can save you time and effort when installing, because the components are designed to work seamlessly.
There are also standalone back panels that are available which are perfect in situations where you are replacing a gas or electric fireplace and want to upgrade the appearance of the existing chimney without having to remove it. These back panels come in a variety of styles and materials, so you'll be able to find the ideal one for your home.
Back panels are not just elegant they are made of materials that are resistant to heat. This is crucial because they shield your floors and walls from the effects of the fireplace suite. This is particularly true if you opt for a gas or solid fuel fireplace suite because they generate an enormous amount of heat that could be transferred to surrounding areas via the wall or ceiling.
A back panel can help to tie together the entire fireplace particularly if you're opting for a more contemporary design. For example this stunning flamerite Ador LED electric fireplace comes with a curved flame picture which really enhances the appearance of your new fireplace. With a contemporary open fronted electric fire, this suite will make an impressive focal point in any living room and dining area or extension.
Alternately, this Elgin and Hall Farnham Deluxe suite is equipped with the well-known Chollerton inset gas fireplace. The glass-fronted fire is a showpiece when paired with the limestone surround and back panel, it will elevate any home to new heights.
If you're looking for a minimalist approach this sleek wall-mounted flamerite Edwin LED electric suite is a great option. This suite can be mounted on any flat wall and can be operated using the remote control included easy to use, and with no chimney or flue required, it's the ideal option for modern homes.
The surround/mantelpiece
In contrast to traditional fireplaces, which require a back panel as well as a fire surround, modern electric units can be hung to the wall in a flush position and provide a stunning focal point. They are perfect for homes where space is limited or where a chimney or flue are not available.
The selection of electric fireplace suites at Fires2U has a wide range of designs and sizes which makes it easy to find the perfect one for your home. Select from beautiful stone designs such as the Carron corbel for the classic Georgian style, or opt for something more minimalist like the Gallery Lincoln with its clean lines and simple elegance. Carron's Gallery Corbel is also popular with pine surrounds. The piece is available unfinished or with wax finishes to bring out the wood's colour and texture.
For a more sophisticated look you could choose marble surrounds. The Elgin & Hall Vitalia Marble electric fire suite is an impressive option with its beautiful detailing and an angled step design. If electric fireplace uk looking for something more subtle and elegant, the Pureglow Hanley is a great choice. The surround is available in gray and is suitable for use with electric or gas fireplaces.
You can pick marble surrounds or a fireplace that is all white to give a more modern appearance. The Carron Ashleigh surround is a popular choice and works with gas and electric fireplaces.
If you like the ambience of real flames in their living room, traditional cast iron furniture is a good choice. The Flamerite Aubade and Tennyson LED cast iron fireplace suites feature a stylish curved mantelpiece and are made to work with wood-burning electric or gas fires. They also come with an automatic remote control so you can adjust the settings of your fire and lighting with ease.
If you're looking to add a touch of luxury, why not choose an elegant fireplace suite? They are generally larger than standard ones and can enhance the look of your living room. They are available in a variety of finishes and colors to match your decor. You can pick a mirror surround for a dramatic appearance and to add light in your home.
The fire
The central element of any fireplace suite is the fire itself however, you don't need to choose a traditional wood-burning fireplace. There are a variety of options out there, including gas and electric. It is important to select one that is appropriate for your room and your requirements. You can also opt for a fireplace that is larger or with a larger frame that frames the fireplace to create a stunning focal in your room.
When choosing a fireplace set-up, make sure to consider how much heat you'll need to heat your home. This will depend on a few factors like the wattage of your fireplace, your current electricity prices, and how many hours you're planning to use it every day. To find this out, you need to divide the wattage of your fireplace by the energy rate charged by your electricity company per kilowatt hour.
The mantelpiece and surround of your fireplace will also have a major impact on how it looks. Some are intricate designs that provide visual interest, while others have a more subtle design that blends into any style of interior. You can even find one that features an LED inside glow log effect that gives the appearance of a real fire without making use of any fuel.
When it comes to fire places, there are four types: wood (nice to view and feel but less efficient; releases air pollutants like particulate matter carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide) gas (more efficient in energy use, but still produces carbon monoxide, burns synthetic or natural logs); and electric (uses the coil and fan process, doesn't release any dangerous gases, is very cost-effective and comfortable). If you want to get the most out of your fireplace pick one with high BTUs. This will heat your room faster and give a more realistic flame effect.