Even run-of-the–mill fireplaces make home a more pleasant place to return to, and there are many good wood, gas and electric varieties on the market today. However, nothing can compare to the rustic splendor of a marble fireplace. It lends class to a home’s living room or bedroom like nothing else.
There are various styles available, many reflecting a certain historic period, including English and French Renaissance, Tudor and contemporary. The arched and baroque styles seem to be amongst the all-time favorites. But basically any fireplace artistically fashioned in marble is an instant attention-grabber that lends character to one’s home. The most spectacular are custom-carved by professionals, often out of single blocks of marble.
Installing a marble fireplace requires a firm foundation because of the heaviness of the stones involved. A homeowner will therefore have to consult an architect before proceeding.
Although fireplaces have decorative appeal, there are several drawbacks to installing working fireplaces. In the first place, fireplaces are far from the most efficient and economic ways of keeping a home warm in winter. Secondly, building fires can be hazardous to the clueless. In America, there are approximately 22,500 chimney fires that cause more than 50 fatalities each year. The Chimney Safety Institute of America requires all chimneys and fireplaces in active use to be cleaned by a certified professional.
If you decide to go ahead with using your marble fireplace for actual fire-making, all the precautions for safe use at home apply. A fire extinguisher should be kept handy at all times (never use water to douse an accidental blaze). An appropriate fuel medium should be used, and smoke detectors installed.
It must be remembered that working marble fireplaces require regular cleaning to prevent the marble from staining permanently.
Whether you are looking for a purely decorative or fully functioning marble fireplace, you should be able to find exactly what you want from the wide choice available today.
Related Articles of Interest :
-
The Benefits of Corner Gas Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any room. It adds warmth, style, and focus. You can build the entire room’s decor around a beautiful fireplace. If you are not lucky enough to already own a fireplace, that’s okay. You can buy a gas fireplace...
-
Fireplace Chimneys
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
An essential part of both indoor and outdoor fireplaces, fireplace chimneys vent the hazardous and noxious gases, produced by the combustion of fuels, safely to the outside atmosphere. Fireplace chimneys regulate the flow of air and keep excessive heat from combustible materials that surround the...
-
A Guide to Natural Gas Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Many people long for a simpler time, for hours spent with the family, happy just to be together. People long for a quieter time as well, time to sit and think and read, time to be. Somehow, for many people a fireplace represents all of...
-
Outdoor Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
An outdoor fireplace is an attractive centerpiece to a patio, backyard or pool. With the warmth and exciting ambiance of a wood-cracking campfire, outdoor fireplaces are intended to be an efficient heat source. They create a relaxing gathering place, where family and friends can spend...
-
A Guide To Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Fireplaces form an open recess in a wall, at the base of a chimney or flue, creating a place where an indoor fire can be built. Fireplaces produce perfect warmth and eliminate cold during the frosty winters, forming the central point of any home, where...
-
Gas Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Gas fireplaces are a sensible and smart alternative for those who want to enjoy the cozy warmth of a fireplace, without the chores of storing and burning wood and cleaning ashes. Gas fireplaces are environmental friendly and have several advantages over the conventional wood burning...
-
Electric Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Electric Fireplaces are one of the latest products in the hearth industry. These are electric devices that are becoming hot favorites in many homes. Electric Fireplaces include a built-in heater regulated by a switch and a space for open fire. Electric fireplaces are considered zero...
-
An Introduction To Outdoor Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Outdoor fireplaces, embracing beauty and durability, provide the warmth and attractive ambiance of a wood-cracking campfire. They add ambience and style to any outdoor occasion. A perfect architectural addition to one’s patio, pool area or backyard, outdoor fireplaces make a great gathering place to spend...
-
The Advantages of Gas Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Many winter fantasies revolve around a crackling fireplace. Perhaps you’re sipping hot chocolate with the kids and talking about snowflakes. Maybe you’re even roasting marshmallows. Or, maybe you’re cuddled with your honey by the light of the glowing embers. It’s a beautiful scene, isn’t it?...
-
Fireplace Screens
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Fireplace screens are one of the important products of the hearth industry. These are accessories of fireplaces that add charm to hearths and homes, and provide comfort and warmth to rooms. As a practical application, the screens safeguard the rooms from sparks that escape from...