The Advanced Guide To Fireplace Suite
Fireplace Suites - The Complete Package
A fireplace suite is the complete package; it includes a surround/mantelpiece, hearth and fire all working together to create the centrepiece of your home. Evolution Fires' suites are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms extensions, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Hotels with fireplaces provide an atmosphere of luxury and warmth that encourages customers to return. Find out how to add this feeling to your hotel.
The hearth
The hearth is a platform that is flat at the base of the fireplace. Its primary function is to shield the wall and floor from embers or heat. It is typically constructed of non-combustible substances like brick or stone, and it extends anywhere from 16 to 18 inches in front of the fireplace. Most gas and wood fireplaces require a hearth, while electric fireplace suites often don't have one.
As a general rule, fireplace suites consist of four main components; an inset fire (either gas or electric), a surround/mantelpiece, a back panel and the hearth. They work in conjunction to create a centerpiece that enhances the appearance of any space and make your home appear more inviting. Suites are ideal for anyone looking to give their interior an updated look and restyle it.
Suites are available in various styles, colors and finishes to match any decor. There is also a range of options for the kind of flame effect, fire and heating output. Conventional gas-fuelled fires are the best choice for homes with a chimney, while balanced flue fires are an alternative that can be used safely in properties without a chimney.
Electric fireplace suites are an excellent option for those who want to create an element of interest to their living spaces without the hassle of installing a traditional wood burner or gas fire. The suites generate their own heat by using the process of convection. They draw in cool air, then warms it and then ejects it out into the room. They do not emit carbon monoxide, which is harmful to breathe in.
The back panel
As the name suggests, the back of your fireplace is at the rear of the fireplace's opening. It helps to create a neat 'n' shape in the mantelpiece, surround and inset fire. It is made from a variety of heat-resistant materials like granite and stone.
The back panel is typically included in a fireplace suite which includes a surround, a mantelpiece, and an inset fire appliance. This will save you time and effort during installation as the components are designed to be able to fit seamlessly.
There are also standalone back panels that are ideal to replace an electric or gas fireplace, and upgrading the appearance of a chimney's existing. Back panels are available in a variety of styles and materials so that you can choose the right one for your home.
Back panels aren't just stylish and stylish, but they're also made of heat-resistant materials. This is important as it shields your floors and walls from the effects of the fireplace suite. This is especially important if you opt for gas or a solid fuel fireplace suite, as they will produce an immense amount of heat that could be transferred to nearby areas via the wall and ceiling.
A back panel can really assist in tying together your entire fireplace set-up particularly if you're looking for a more contemporary design. For instance, this stunning flamerite Ador LED electric fireplace has a curved flame picture that enhances the look of your new fire. With a contemporary open-fronted electric fireplace, this suite will make a stunning focal feature in any living room and dining area or extension.
This Elgin and Hall Farnham Deluxe Suite is equipped with the well-known Chollerton gas fire that is set. The glass-fronted fireplace is a true show-stopper and when paired with the limestone surround and back panel, it will raise any home to new heights.
For a more minimalist approach this sleek wall-mounted flamerite Edwin LED electric suite is a great option. This suite will hang against any flat wall and be operated using the included remote control - simple to use, and without chimney or flue required, it's the perfect choice for modern homes.
The surround/mantelpiece
Unlike traditional fireplaces, which have to be fitted with an apex back panel and fire surround, modern electric suites can be installed to the wall in a flush position and create an impressive focal point. They are ideal for homes with small spaces or without a chimney or flue.
Fires2U's electric fireplace collection offers a variety of styles and sizes so you can find the ideal one for your home. Choose from oak electric fireplace suites like the Carron corbel for an elegant Georgian appearance, or choose something more minimalist like the Gallery Lincoln with its clean lines and simple elegance. Pine surrounds are popular too and the Gallery Corbel from Carron is no exception. This piece is available in unfinished or with wax to highlight the wood's colour and texture.
For a more sophisticated look you can choose a marble surround. The Elgin & Hall Vitalia Marble electric fire suite is an impressive choice with its gorgeous detailing and angled stepped design. Pureglow Hanley, if you want something a little more delicate, is a great alternative. This surround comes in a grey-colored finish and is suitable for use with electric or gas fires.
As well as marble surrounds as well as marble surrounds, you can also choose an edgier style by using the sleek look of a white unit. The Carron Ashleigh is a popular option that works well with both gas and electric fires.
A traditional cast iron fireplace is always a good option for those who appreciate the ambience of real flames blazing in their living space. The Flamerite Aubade and Tennyson LED cast iron fireplace suites feature an attractive curved mantelpiece. They are made to work with wood-burning, electric or gas fireplaces. They are also supplied with an integrated remote control which allows you to alter your fire and light settings with ease.
Why not add a touch of elegance to your living area by choosing a deluxe fire place suite? They're usually bigger than standard suites and are perfect for adding a touch of class to your living space. They are available in a wide range of finishes and colors to match your decor. You can also choose mirror-like surrounds to create a dramatic effect and increase the amount of light entering your living space.

The fire
The heart of any fireplace is the fire however, you don't have to go with a traditional wood burning fireplace. Gas and electric are also alternatives. It is important to select the right design for your space and your needs. You can also opt for an extra large fireplace or one with a larger screen that frames the fire to create a stunning focal point in your room.
When you are choosing a fireplace suite, be sure to think about the amount of heat you'll need to heat your home. This will depend upon some factors, such as the amount of heat produced by the fireplace and the current electricity rates and the length of time you're planning to use it each day. Divide the wattage of your fireplace by the energy rate per kilowatt-hour that you pay your electricity provider.
The surround of your fireplace and mantelpiece also play a big role in how it looks in your space. Some have intricate designs that add a new layer of visual interest to the space, while others have more subtle and blends into most interior styles. You can also find a suite that has an LED inner glow log effect that gives the appearance of a real fire without making use of any fuel.
When it comes to fireplaces there are four types of wood (nice to look at and feel but less efficient; releases air pollutants like particulate matter, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide); gas (more efficient in terms of energy, but still releases carbon monoxide, burns synthetic or natural logs) and electric (uses a coil and fan, doesn't release any dangerous gases, very economical and cozy). If you want to get the most value of your fireplace set-up pick one that has high BTUs. This will warm your room faster and provide a more authentic flame effect.