Hot, Hot, Hot Den Trend - Fireplace Options

It doesn’t get much hotter than this, a fireplace for a den is the hottest decorating trend setting the design world on fire.  But what if you’re not lucky enough to have a fireplace in the den?  You have options!

Electric Fireplaces

Plugged in and portable, electric fireplaces have come a long way in design and style.  With remote controls or control panels, they now have heat generating options and more.  What they haven’t perfected is the look of the ‘flames’, it may be a disappointment to some, as they do not have a realistic look.  The product does add warmth, literally and physically, to the room, and it’s a good budget decorating option for having one installed.

Cost:  $700 and Less

Gel Fireplaces

Going anywhere on the wall to the floor, gel fireplaces don’t give the physical warmth, but give more of the look you like flamewise.  The flame is produced by a non-toxic, odorless, smokeless gel, although some with sensitive noses say it can give them a headache.

Cost:  $600 and Less

Installing a Fireplace

If you have more of a budget to decorate your den, considering adding a fireplace.  It can not only add a coziness to the room, but can help with the heating bills as well.  Consider these options:

Woodburning
The most expensive option is to install a regular masonry woodburning fireplace and chimney for a cool $10,000 - $30,000.  Remember for this option, woodburning fireplaces tend to lose heat through the chimney as well as produce it.  It’s not the most heat producing option.  A gas fireplace on the other hand, tends to produce more heat and can have a blower to help heat the room.

Vented Gas Fireplaces
Vented gas fireplaces burn propane or natural gas and must be vented from the stove or fireplace to the outside of the house.  They can run from $1,000 - $5,000 installed.

Unvented Gas Fireplaces
Some states do not allow unvented gas stoves or fireplaces due to building codes.  Before considering this option, check local codes.  While less expensive, drawbacks include moisture buildup in the room if it used often, and although manufacturers claim air quality is not an issue, allergy sufferers and those with sensitive noses differ on opinions.  An installed option can run from $800 - $2,000.

Stoves

Installing a woodstove or gas stove is more economical, heat’s the room better and is less expensive, but can still run from $3,000 - $8,000 depending on the cost of the stove and the method of venting the stove.  Stoves come in all shapes and sizes and can burn wood, pellets or gas.

So if your burning desire is a cozy fireplace in the den, there are options to consider to get a warm look for your space.