What’s The Difference Between a Fireplace and An Insert?

The difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert is simple. A fireplace is a structure that is built into a home. It is constructed either when a home is built or with a major construction to add one. This includes the chimney down to the firebox. A fireplace can be made of stone or brick and mortar. A fireplace insert is a firebox inserted into an existing fireplace. An insert is a good idea if you are looking for a more efficient source of heat. Maybe you have owned the home for quite a while, and you want a new look. There is an assortment of different styles and decor that you can choose from.

Now that you know the difference, let us talk about the benefits. See below the pros and cons.

Fireplace

Pros:

There is no other feeling of sitting by a wood-burning fireplace on a snowy night. A warm comfy blanket with a hot cup of coffee. And why not a great mystery? The aesthetics of a wood-burning fireplace are hard to beat.

Cons:

A wood-burning fireplace is not the best source of heat. In older homes, fireplaces were not built as efficiently as the newer ones are. You may have drafts. Bricks start to flake, called spalling.

If you are looking for a completely new fireplace, plan on a week or two of construction in your home. This can disrupt the activities that your family may have planned.

Fireplace Insert

Pros:

Excellent source of secondary heat. Inserts are very efficient, often saving on your fuel or electric bill. A fireplace insert is a self-contained firebox. Usually with a fan system that distributes the heat out into the room. This has been found to produce an excellent source of heat.

You may also be interested in changing the look of your outdated fireplace. A fireplace insert is an excellent idea. At Doodlebuggers, our technicians can help you with those decisions. We have options in many different styles. From stone to tile and in many different colors.

A fireplace insert will cost a lot less than a complete fireplace rebuild. Plus, the construction will bring an interruption to your time in front of the fireplace.

Cons:

You will still have the ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace. However, it may be from a smaller opening. The insert fits directly into the existing fireplace, giving you a smaller window to see your fire.

If you are thinking of a new fireplace construction or an insert, call Doodlebuggers, we have the answers for you.

Our quality workmanship and professional service are second to none. Your fireplace and/or fireplace insert will be installed by trained professionals. Rest assured that your fireplace or insert will be safe for your family. We are not done with the job until you are happy with the quality and efficiency of your new appliance. Call us for an appointment. We are here to help.

If you are thinking of a new fireplace construction or an insert, call Doodlebuggers® at 850-477-1151 in Pensacola or 850-243-0154 in Destin to schedule an appointment today. Our quality workmanship and professional service are second to none — we are not done until you are completely happy with your new appliance. You can also contact us online.