Introduction to Our Fireplace Renovation Journey
Recently, we undertook an exciting project to upgrade our living room by installing a modern wood burning stove, replacing the old open fireplace that had been a feature in our home since we purchased it approximately six years ago. Our aim was to create a cozier and more efficient heating solution that would also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space.
The transformation involved a comprehensive overhaul of the existing fireplace, leading to a stylish and functional feature that complements our interior design. The images below illustrate the dramatic before-and-after change, showcasing the sleek new fireplace and warm ambiance created by the stove installation.
The Old Fireplace: A Closer Look
Prior to our renovation, the fireplace was an open design with a concrete surround and hearth, coupled with a brick firebox chamber. The entire setup was painted black, giving it a somewhat dated appearance. The concrete surround and hearth, along with the brick firebox, were all painted black, which we decided to retain initially, though our preferences evolved over time.
We seldom used this open fireplace due to its inefficiency in heating and the drafty nature of the chimney, which lacked a damper. To mitigate heat loss, we often used a chimney balloon or draft excluder within the chimney throat, but it was clear that a more effective solution was needed. Our goal was to replace this outdated setup with a modern, energy-efficient fireplace that would serve as a focal point and a practical heat source.
Home Inspection and Planning
Before proceeding, we benefited from a complimentary home inspection service offered by several showrooms, which provided valuable insights into the size requirements for the new fireplace components and the optimal size for the wood stove based on our living room dimensions. Our living room measures approximately 16 square meters (about 172 square feet), with a ceiling height of just under 3 meters. Based on these measurements, the experts recommended a stove with an output of around 3.5 kW, suitable for our space.
Additionally, we decided to block up the old kitchen fireplace during this process. The inspection helped us understand the necessary dimensions and configurations, ensuring a perfect fit for all new components.
Choosing the Perfect Fireplace and Stove Components
With a clear vision in mind—modern yet stylish, harmonizing with our grey color scheme—we explored various options for stove and fireplace materials. Our research included visiting multiple showrooms to see samples up close, which greatly aided our decision-making process.
Selecting the Ideal Wood Burning Stove
Our primary focus was on a compact stove with a modest heat output to avoid overheating the room. After thorough consideration, we selected the Charnwood Cranmore 3, a model known for its traditional yet contemporary design, featuring a large glass front that allows for a pleasant viewing experience. The stove’s nominal output is 3.7 kW (approximately 12,000 BTU), with an impressive efficiency rating of 86%. It offers straightforward operation with a single air control, making it user-friendly and suitable for our needs.
Choosing a Hearth Material
We considered several options for the hearth material, primarily limestone and granite. Our preference leaned toward granite because of its durability and the contrast it provided against the darker elements of the fireplace. We opted for a honed finish, which offers a smooth surface with a subtle sheen—less glossy than polished granite but more refined than leathered options. This choice complemented our aesthetic and was practical for cleaning and maintenance.
Picking the Surround for Visual Contrast
The surround material was selected to create a harmonious contrast with the granite hearth. We chose a limestone surround, opting for an Aegean limestone with small fossil inclusions, providing an off-white hue that brightened the overall look. Initially, we considered veined limestone for a natural veining pattern but decided on Aegean limestone for its softer, more neutral tone that matched our interior palette.
Deciding on a Chamber Lining
The final element was the chamber lining, which surrounds the firebox internally. We had options including brick, slate, or a painted finish. We chose a dark slate chamber lining in charcoal, which enhanced the visual appeal and coordinated well with the black stove and hearth. The darker tone provided a sleek, modern touch while maintaining a classic feel.
Final Home Measurement and Preparation
Once our materials were selected and a deposit paid, we scheduled a detailed home survey. This step was crucial for precise measurements to ensure seamless fitting of the hearth, surround, chamber lining, and the stove itself. The survey also included the assessment of chimney dimensions and structural considerations.
Removal of Old Fireplace and Structural Preparations
Our installation team made two visits. The initial visit involved carefully dismantling the existing fireplace, including removing the concrete hearth and surround, and preparing the chimney by installing new caps and a flexible flue liner. During this phase, our kitchen fireplace was also sealed off to prevent drafts and improve efficiency.
The old concrete and brick components were responsibly disposed of, and the new chimney caps—featuring a vented cover for the blocked kitchen flue and a cowl for the stove flue—were installed for optimal draft control and safety.
Plastering and Finishing Touches
Following removal, the uneven surfaces left by the old fireplace required plastering. We hired a skilled tradesperson to smooth out the surfaces in both the living room and the now-blocked kitchen fireplace. After the plaster dried, we painted the surfaces to match our interior scheme, ready for the new installation.
Installing the New Fireplace and Wood Stove
The culmination of the project involved laying the new honed granite hearth, assembling the limestone surround, and fitting the chamber linings to ensure a perfect fit. The stove was then positioned onto the hearth, with the stovepipe connected to the chimney via the closure plate installed at the throat.
The entire setup was carefully tested, and safety devices such as a carbon monoxide alarm were installed nearby. The first fire was lit immediately after installation, allowing the paint to cure and ensuring the stove operated within safe temperature ranges. We kept the windows open during this curing process to ventilate any fumes.
Addressing Post-Installation Challenges
After initial fires, we noticed a smoky odor in the house, which prompted us to investigate. We discovered that the shared chimney flue between the living room and kitchen, separated only by a single brick layer, was likely the source. This deterioration caused fumes and particulates to leak into the living space during fires.
To monitor and address this, we used an air quality monitor, tracking PM2.5 levels and other pollutants, which spiked during fires. We confirmed that we had been burning kiln-dried firewood with around 12% moisture, which is ideal for efficient combustion. Our installer advised us to temporarily block the kitchen fireplace opening and run the stove hot for a few weeks, which successfully reduced the smell. We now regularly monitor the air quality to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
Essential Accessories and Equipment
To maximize the efficiency and safety of our new setup, we invested in several accessories:
- Kiln dried firewood and kindling from a local supplier
- A sturdy log store placed conveniently outside for easy access
- An ash bucket to facilitate clean removal of ashes
- A stove fan to circulate warm air more effectively
- A stove thermometer for monitoring operating temperature
- A comprehensive tool set including poker, shovel, and brush
- A moisture meter to check firewood dryness
- An air quality monitor for ongoing indoor air assessment
- An ash vacuum for cleaning the stove chamber efficiently
Additional Accessories and Tools
We also continue to use our existing fireplace tools such as a carbon monoxide alarm, kindling basket, indoor log holder, and fire extinguisher, which remain essential for safe operation and maintenance.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Our fireplace renovation has transformed our living room into a warm, inviting, and stylish space. The combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design choices, and careful installation has resulted in a feature we truly love. We’re delighted with the performance of our new wood stove and look forward to enjoying many cozy fires in the future.
What are your thoughts on our project? Feel free to share your comments below!