In Alberta, nothing is better than coming home in the middle of winter and sitting down in front of a fireplace to warm up. Fireplaces are a great way to heat up your home, provide a pleasing aesthetic point, and also make your living space feel just a little more cozy. However, a fireplace usually ends up being the focal point of any room, so choosing which fireplace design you want in your home can be tricky; there are so many different designs and types.

If you’re considering installing a fireplace in your home, here is a look at the different options you can choose from.

Masonry Fireplaces
These are the most traditional of fireplace designs; as they are wood burning. The sensation of direct heat, combined with the mesmerizing dancing and flickering of a wood fire makes its use most pleasurable during cold conditions.

Pre-Fabricated Fireplaces
In many new homes, fireplace designs are prefabricated from metal with a metal flue and are installed into wooden frame walls. They typically have a metal firebox with a fire-resistant barrier on the interior. Gas logs can be installed in almost any wood burning fireplace. Natural gas or propane (LPG) can both be used in these. Just make sure you order the right gas, as they are different. These have ceramic logs as well as a burner that produces a naturally glowing flame.

Vented Gas Fireplaces
A vented gas fireplace has a metal chimney. These cannot be used for wood burning, however they typically have very attractive & real looking flames.

Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces
A direct vent gas fireplace can be vented either out a side wall or vertically to the roof. They are very efficient, as they do not use any indoor air for combustion.

Ventless Fireplaces
Ventless fireplace designs do not have chimneys. They are an inexpensive choice of fireplace, and are designed for aesthetic appeal; however these fireplaces cannot be used as a heat source.

Outdoor Fireplaces & Fire-Pits
Of course, you can always choose to build an outdoor fireplace. These can be used as an excellent way to share fun times with friends and family during warm summer evenings. They are often made the focal point of an outdoor entertainment area.