A Guide To Double-Sided Fireplaces

Double-sided fireplaces, my friend, are a bit like the multitaskers of the fireplace world. Known also as two-sided or see-through fireplaces, these unique installations offer a two-for-one deal: the warmth and atmosphere of a fire, shared between two spaces simultaneously. With their eye-catching design, double-sided fireplaces have a way of elevating the look of any room from comfortable to downright luxurious.

If you've ever felt the warmth of a glowing fireplace, you know the kind of cozy, inviting atmosphere it brings to a room. Now, let's kick that experience up a notch. Imagine that same warmth and appealing light spreading through not one, but two rooms. That's the magic of a double-sided fireplace!

Embracing the Versatility of Double-Sided Fireplaces

The most significant advantage of a double-sided fireplace? It's all in its ability to heat two rooms at the same time, thereby upping its efficiency. When you position these fireplaces in a wall shared between two rooms, they distribute warmth evenly, making them an attractive and practical solution for larger spaces or open floor plans.

Imagine this - you have a double-sided fireplace installed between your living room and dining room. On a chilly evening, you're unwinding with a book in your living room, basking in the gentle warmth and soft light from the fireplace. Now, picture hosting a dinner party on another day, with the same inviting glow adding a special touch to your dining room. That's a double-sided fireplace for you!

And here's the best part - these fireplaces aren't just restricted to living and dining rooms. They can be worked into various room combinations - the master bedroom and the adjoining bathroom is a personal favorite. Heck, you could even bring their charm into commercial spaces like restaurants or hotels. They not only serve as a functional heating solution but also double up as a piece of art that makes a statement.

In a nutshell, with a two sided fireplace, you're not just getting a heating solution. You're getting an installation that combines efficiency with aesthetics, bringing a sense of luxury and warmth into your home. And trust me; it's an investment you won't regret!

Types of Double-Sided Fireplaces

Just as with single-sided fireplaces, double-sided fireplaces come in a variety of types, each with their own set of benefits and considerations.

Wood-Burning Fireplaces

A wood-burning two sided fireplace offers the most traditional fireplace experience. The crackling sound, the smell of burning wood, and the visual appeal of the flickering flames create a cozy and rustic ambiance that is hard to replicate. These fireplaces require a well-established venting system, typically through a chimney, to ensure that the smoke and gases produced by the burning wood are safely expelled from your home.

Gas Fireplaces

A gas fireplace, which can use either natural gas or propane, offers a cleaner and more convenient alternative to wood-burning ones. They create a consistent heat output and realistic-looking flames without the need for storing and loading firewood. They can be easily ignited with the flick of a switch or the press of a remote button, and the flame level can be easily adjusted.

Electric Fireplaces

An electric fireplace is the most versatile and easiest to install as they don't require any venting system. They use heated coils or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to create heat and a flame-like effect, which is reflected on a screen to mimic the appearance of a real fire. Though they may not offer the same authentic experience as wood or gas fireplaces, they are an energy-efficient choice and require less maintenance.

Venting Considerations

Regardless of the type of double-sided fireplace you choose, proper venting is crucial for safe and efficient operation. B-vent, direct vent, and vent-free are the three main types of venting systems used.

B-vent, also known as natural vent, requires a chimney to expel the combustion gases. It draws air from inside the home for combustion and releases the combustion gases outside through the chimney.

Direct vent fireplaces have a sealed combustion system. They draw the air required for combustion from outside the home, and also expel the combustion gases outside, ensuring a safe and efficient operation without affecting the indoor air quality.

Vent-free fireplaces, on the other hand, don't require any venting. They burn the fuel completely, producing a very minimal amount of emissions that can be safely released into the room. This makes vent-free fireplaces highly efficient, but it's essential to install them in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide.

Each of these venting systems has its own advantages and considerations, and the choice between them would depend on various factors, such as the fireplace location, local building codes, and your personal preferences.

The Value of a Double Fireplace

In addition to providing efficient heating, double-sided fireplaces bring a unique design aesthetic to your home. With their two-sided view, they can act as a focal point in your home, visible from multiple rooms. The inviting glow of a double-sided fireplace can add a sense of luxury and comfort to your interior design.

You can choose from a variety of styles and finishes to suit your taste and home décor, whether you're looking for a sleek, contemporary design with a glass front and metal trim, or a more traditional stone surround. The versatility of double-sided fireplaces allows them to fit seamlessly into any design style.

Moreover, the installation of a double-sided fireplace can potentially increase the value of your home. According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, fireplaces are among the top three features requested by new homebuyers. A double-sided fireplace, with its unique appeal and practical benefits, can be a significant selling point if you decide to sell your home in the future.

Recommended Double Sided Fireplaces

Empire Carol Rose Linear Outdoor Fireplace

Add a touch of luxury to your backyard with the Empire Carol Rose Linear Outdoor Fireplace. This fireplace from the Carol Rose Coastal Collection offers both warmth and elegance to your outdoor living spaces.

• Green Earth preferred Intermittent Pilot (IP) system: eco-friendly and eliminates the standing pilot light for greater energy savings.
• On/Off, High/Low remote control included: for easy operation.
• Millivolt systems available: ideal for outdoor installations where power is not readily available.
• Beautiful design: perfect for enhancing your outdoor decor.

EcoSmart Flex Double Sided Bioethanol Fireplace

The EcoSmart Flex Double-Sided Bioethanol Fireplace is a seamless blend of efficiency, elegance, and eco-friendliness. It offers a unique room divider design with a captivating flame viewable from both sides.

• No gas, no electricity, no chimney needed: for easy installation.
• XL900 burner: delivers a stunning linear flame and heats up to 646ft2.
• Clean-burning e-NRG Bioethanol: no need for a flue or a chimney.
• Self-contained, zero clearance construction: allows installation flexibility.
• Luxurious black finish: comes with stainless steel burners and black glass charcoal.

Empire Boulevard 60 Linear Vent Free See-Thru Gas Fireplace - VFLB60SP

Step up your home decor game with the Empire Boulevard 60 Linear Vent-Free See-Through Gas Fireplace. This fireplace marries size, style, and versatility, promising a breathtaking centerpiece in any setting.

• Mesh safety screens: on both sides for added safety (no glass required).
• Powerful output: provides up to 40,000 BTUs of heat.
• Thermostat Variable Remote Control: for convenient temperature adjustment.
• Multicolor Programmable LED Lighting: underneath the burner for an enhanced ambiance.
• Indoor/Outdoor versatility: installs as a conventional see-through on an interior wall or an indoor/outdoor fireplace.

The Evolution of Fireplace Technology

Fireplace technology, let me tell you, has come a long way! It's been an exciting journey, transitioning from the cozy but high-maintenance traditional wood-burning fireplaces to the sophisticated and efficient gas and electric ones. If you're a fireplace enthusiast like me, you'll appreciate how double-sided fireplaces have particularly benefited from these advances.

The Journey from the Rustic to the Contemporary

Think of a traditional fireplace, and you're probably picturing splitting logs, a crackling fire, and the inevitable soot and ash cleanup. Sure, it has its charm, but the process isn't all rosy, is it? I remember the days when I had to put in significant elbow grease just to keep the fire going, not to mention cleaning up afterwards!

But take a look at the fireplaces of today. With the advent of gas and electric fireplaces, we've entered a whole new realm of convenience. Gas fireplaces give you that lovely feel of dancing flames, all the while saving you the hassle of wood-burning maintenance. Not only that, but you can also control the heat output with ease. Sounds neat, doesn't it?

Electric fireplaces? Now we're talking some serious flexibility and convenience. No need for venting means you can have one anywhere in your house! Think of curling up with a good book, bathed in the warm glow of a fireplace in your bedroom. Plus, almost all of the energy they consume goes straight into heating - talk about efficiency!

Fancy Features That Enhance Your Fireplace Experience

Technology hasn't just made double-sided fireplaces more efficient; it's added some real fun elements, too. Take electric fireplaces, for example. Many come with multicolored ember bed lighting, so you can change the look of your fireplace to suit your mood or even match your decor! I've got one of these, and trust me, it's quite the conversation starter at parties!

What's more, some double-sided fireplaces even come with built-in smart speakers. Imagine it – your favorite tunes playing while the fireplace literally sets the room's ambiance. It's a feast for the senses, and a feature I can't recommend enough!

Modern Fireplaces - Convenient and Cost-Effective

You know what else is great about modern double-sided fireplaces? The convenience! With the remote control, you can adjust the heat output, flame height, and even the ember bed lighting, all while you relax on your couch. It's a far cry from the good old days when I had to tinker with logs to get a decent flame going.

And don't let the initial installation cost of these modern marvels deter you. Yes, it might be a tad bit higher than a conventional wood-burning fireplace. But in the long run, they're more cost-effective. With the high energy-efficiency rates of electric and gas fireplaces, you'll see considerable savings on your energy bills in the long run. As someone who's switched from a traditional to a modern fireplace, I can vouch for that!

In a nutshell, the evolution of fireplace technology has turned double-sided fireplaces into much more than a source of heat. They're now a feature-rich, lifestyle statement that spells out sophistication and convenience. If you're considering a fireplace for your home, this is the perfect time to explore these modern, double-sided marvels!

Installation and Maintenance of A Double-Sided Fireplace

Professional Installation Matters

Just as we wouldn't let a novice perform surgery, it's not advisable to let anyone but a professional handle the installation of your double-sided fireplace. You see, there's a lot that goes into a proper installation – from ensuring safety regulations are met to optimizing for performance and longevity.

Installing a two-sided fireplace isn't just about finding the right spot in your wall and popping in a unit. It involves careful consideration of the building's structure, the type of venting needed, and adherence to local building codes. Professionals have the experience and knowledge to anticipate issues that could arise and know how to deal with them.

Tips for Fireplace Maintenance

Now, once your double-sided fireplace is installed, you want it to last and perform efficiently, right? This is where maintenance comes in, and it's not as daunting as it sounds, promise!

Regular Cleaning

First things first, keep your fireplace clean. Yes, it's as simple as it sounds. Regular cleaning of the glass front, removing ash build-up in wood-burning models, and dusting off the interior of gas and electric models will significantly contribute to the longevity and performance of your fireplace. Also, clean fireplaces just look better!

Scheduled Inspections

Next up, get your fireplace professionally inspected at least once a year. Think of it as a health check-up but for your fireplace. These inspections can catch small issues before they become big problems, ensuring your fireplace stays in tip-top shape and continues to run efficiently.

Regular Vent Maintenance

For vented fireplaces, whether direct vent or b-vent, maintaining the venting system is crucial. Regular inspections ensure that no blockages or build-up are hindering the venting process, keeping your fireplace running smoothly and safely.

Use Recommended Fuel

Lastly, make sure to use the recommended fuel for your specific model, whether it's the right grade of wood for wood-burning fireplaces, or the correct gas pressure for gas models. Using the right fuel can prolong the lifespan of your fireplace and prevent unnecessary damage.

Wrapping It Up: The Dual Delight of A Two Sided Fireplace

Well, there you have it - the ins and outs, the ups and downs, the hearth and soul of double-sided fireplaces. If you've stuck with me this far, I bet you're as fired up about these versatile wonders as I am.

Double-sided fireplaces, whether they're wood-burning, gas, or electric, have an undeniable appeal. They give your home that extra bit of character, warmth, and luxury, serving as both a practical heating solution and a visual delight. And let's not forget, they heat two rooms at once - talk about a win-win!

Can you just imagine settling down in your family room with a good book, the soft light of the fire creating a cozy ambiance? Or picture hosting a dinner party, the dining room bathed in the warm glow from the same fire. It's not just about the heat, but the atmosphere these fireplaces create. They effortlessly take center stage, becoming the heart of your home.

And remember, they're not just for traditional or rustic styles. Modern double-sided fireplaces with their clean lines and advanced technology can fit right into a contemporary interior design. There's a two sided fireplace out there for every home, every style, every one of you.

Are you ready to turn up the heat in your home decor? Take a look at our collection of double-sided fireplaces and imagine the possibilities. Still unsure? Don't sweat it! We're here to help. Reach out to us with your queries or for recommendations tailored to your home and needs.

Remember, we are the fire experts, and we can't wait to help you find the perfect fireplace that sparks joy in your home. Because, after all, where there's smoke, there's fire, and where there's fire, well, there's home.