A fireplace is one of the most desirable perks of homeownership. After all, who doesn’t want that added warmth and ambiance that a fireplace provides? Of course, without a chimney, a fireplace is nothing but a hot box waiting to fill your home with unwanted fumes and smoke.
There are two main options to consider when installing a chimney in the home and we hear at All Seasons Chimney want to walk through these options with you. Your satisfaction is our biggest desire, which is why we want to show you the pros and cons of both masonry and prefabricated chimneys.
Let’s make the right choice for your home. Call 845-567-1217 for more details.
Masonry Chimneys: A Timeless Craft
When we think of chimneys the first thing that typically comes to mind is the classic masonry chimney with its stone or brick and mortar composition.
The Installation Process
Building a brick and mortar chimney is a sophisticated craft that requires skilled masons who take into account every detail – from the height of the chimney to the size of the flue. The structure is built brick by brick, starting with a foundation and working its way up to the chimney crown. If even one brick is laid out of place or the mortar is mixed incorrectly, the whole structure is at risk of becoming unstable. However, when done right, this artwork can last a lifetime.
Other Considerations
Cost: When building a structure out of stone or brick, the upfront cost can be higher due to the nature of the materials and the skill it takes to install it. That being said, because they last a lifetime, you won’t need to worry about replacement costs anytime soon.- Durability: Speaking of saving money over time, the durability of brick and mortar or stone chimneys is unmatched. These structures can hold up to tremendous temperature fluctuations, as well as exposure to elements (when well maintained).
- Longevity: If regularly inspected, maintained, and waterproofed, a masonry chimney can last a lifetime.
- Aesthetics: A masonry chimney can be a beautiful addition to the curb appeal of your house, improving its overall value. Masonry chimneys are a beautiful addition to any home as they compliment a host of various architectural styles.
Prefabricated Chimneys: Efficiency & Convenience
A prefabricated chimney is designed and manufactured within a factory. It is created to be easily installed. These chimneys are built almost entirely of metal components and can be built to specific design standards.
The Installation Process
Installing a prefabricated chimney is simply a matter of putting together the various sections of the already built metal chimney and securing them properly to the home. This doesn’t mean it’s a job for a DIY-er, though. Always leave it to a professional to ensure you don’t risk gas leaks, smoke in your home, house fires, and more.
Other Considerations
- Cost: The cost of a prefabricated chimney is lower than that of its stone or brick counterpart. The components of the chimney are almost always mass produced meaning the material costs are low. In addition to low material cost, prefab chimneys are less labor intensive to install.
- Longevity: Like any part of your home’s construction, how durable or long-lasting a prefabricated chimney will be is largely dependent on the quality of the materials used. While they may not last as long as a masonry chimney, it is a realistic expectation that they would last two or three decades if proper care is given to them.
- Insulation: Many prefabricated chimneys have insulation built into their design which increases their efficiency and decreases overall heat loss.
- Maintenance: Prefabricated chimneys require regular inspection and sweeping services, and sometimes a component can get damaged or need replaced – but overall they demand less attention than masonry chimneys.
- Aesthetics: Modern prefab units look great and can be easily personalized to your desires and and tastes. Yet, while there are countless ways to spruce up the prefabricated chimney, some feel it doesn’t live up to the appeal that comes with the stone work of a masonry chimney.
Which Is the Right Choice for Me?
Knowing the various pros and cons of masonry chimneys and prefabricated chimneys is an important step in considering what addition you make to your home. At All Seasons Chimney we are experts in the installation, inspection, maintenance, and repairs that every chimney needs. We also understand that every home and every family has a different set of needs.
Trust us from the start – we’re happy to help.
For Chimney & Fireplace Services, Call On Us
From the earliest stages of choosing a fireplace and chimney for your home to the regular care and maintenance that makes a chimney last, our team at All Seasons is here for you. Call us today or reach out online to see how we can help you on your journey of fireplace delight.