Pros And Cons Of Buying A Home With A Fireplace
Posted on: 10 February 2021
No matter what type of climate you are moving to, chances are you've come across several homes with fireplaces. Many people enjoy fireplaces even if it never snows in their area. However, there are also some drawbacks to buying a home with one. Here are some reasons to choose a home with an existing fireplace and some of the added issues to take into account.
Fireplace Pros:
Fireplaces can offer a variety of benefits to homeowners.
Fireplaces Add Extra Warmth
Fireplaces provide warmth even when the power is out. This makes them almost a necessity in cold climates.
Fireplaces Use Renewable Materials
Wood is a renewable resource and easily available in most places. Wood is often cheaper than oil or electric heating.
Fireplaces Provide a Nice Atmosphere
Many people find the warm glow of a fire romantic and cozy, especially on a cold day.
Fireplaces Look Cool
Fireplaces provide an excellent decorative focal point for the room even when there's no fire burning.
Fireplace Cons:
Like any good thing, fireplaces also have their downsides. Here are some things to consider if you are looking for a house with a fireplace.
Fireplaces Need Cleaning
For maximum safety, you clean the ash and debris from your fireplace regularly. Ash can build up and create a potential fire hazard if ignored.
Fireplaces Need Special Maintenance
The chimney also needs regular inspections and cleaning. Creosote and other residues can form and create a fire hazard. Plus, you need to make sure vents and exterior screens are working properly.
Fireplaces Sometimes Allow Heat Loss
Fireplace chimneys and vents are rarely airtight. They often become drafty and allow cold air into the house. However, one way to avoid this is with a fireplace insert to close up the gaps.
Fireplaces Involve Real Fire
When you have a fireplace, you are dealing with real flames. There is also a chance of a stray ember flying out of the fireplace. Therefore, you have to be extra mindful where you place furniture and rugs.
In the end, it all comes down to personal preference and whether the pros outweigh the cons for you. You also can take measures to reduce the cons of fireplaces. If you want to buy a home with a fireplace, have the chimney inspected. Other options to consider are a faux electric fireplace or even a wood-burning stove to save on maintenance. If you want to find a home for sale with a fireplace, talk to a real estate agent in your area like one from Liberty 100 Realty.
Share