If you look around at fireplaces, you will see that there is a
multitude of options when it comes to enclosures. In most cases,
the choice relates simply to preferred taste. However, in addition
to looking nice, fireplace enclosures also offer some definite
benefits:
- More energy efficiency
- Eliminates heat loss by allowing warm air to escape up the chimney
- Provides a balanced floor to ceiling heat
- Maintains heat even after the fire is extinguished
- Lowers A/C costs in the summer by retaining a cool room temperature
- Keeps smoke, sparks, and soot inside the fireplace
- Reduces the amount of cleaning
- Lowers the use of wood by controlling the draft
- Reduces the need for constant monitoring
- Creates an elegant look
Glass enclosures are probably the most commonly used for all of the
above reasons plus more. In addition to these benefits, glass
enclosures are often guaranteed for life and designed with superior
quality. Additionally, they offer easy cleaning, which is always a
bonus.
There is nothing better than a nice, roaring fire, to take the chill
out of a room. However, without a fireplace enclosure, you could be
allowing heat to escape, thus reducing the efficiency. Enclosures
are designed to fit snugly to ensure all the heat is conserved as the
fire dyes. In other words, even when the flames have been reduced to
glowing embers, the enclosure will continue to heat your room from the
heat it absorbed while the fire was burning.
Shop around and be sure you get the type of enclosure that will be the
easiest for your specific needs. Many styles come with rigid mesh
screens, door hinges to allow the enclosure to open fully, and various
colors and finishes. You can choose from clean lines for a
contemporary or sophisticated line or something more ornate for a
look of class.
|
