Homeowners often decide to include a fireplace when planning their home build or renovation project. However, few people know how many decisions go into choosing the right fireplace options for their space. Our Texas-based architects are here to help you understand all the parts and components of a fireplace, different fireplace options on the market, and how to choose materials for a unique fireplace design to fit your overall home style.

Bend of the River Residence, Stucco surround with wood mantle

Here’s What the Parts of a Fireplace are Called

Most homeowners are familiar with the chimney and the mantel, but their fireplace terminology ends there. When shopping or designing fireplace options for your home, it’s beneficial to know what the parts of a fireplace are called. Here is our glossary of important fireplace components to keep in mind when discussing project plans with architects, contractors, and interior designers.

1. Firebox

The firebox is the main component of the fireplace. This is the rectangular opening where the fire is built or where an insert may be placed. Fireboxes are lined with heat resistant firebricks.

2. Fireplace Insert

In traditional masonry fireplaces, there may only be a firebox. For electric and gas models, there may be a fireplace insert that houses additional components, like glass doors or ventilation, and fits inside the firebox.

3. Hearth

The hearth is located at the fireplace base and usually extends from inside the firebox anywhere from 16 to 18 inches outside the firebox onto a raised base or flush with the floor. The hearth protects the interior flooring from heat and embers and must be made from a non-combustible material.

4. Surround

The surround is the area surrounding the firebox’s perimeter, typically ranging from 8 to 12 inches. Like the hearth, the surround is meant to protect the interior from the fireplace’s heat and must be non-combustible.

5. Lintel

The lintel is a structural component located at the top of the firebox to spread the load of the chimney and support the firebox opening.

6. Mantel

The mantel is the decorative ledge placed over the firebox opening. It can be free-floating or supported by legs or pilasters.

7. Chimney

The chimney starts at the top of the firebox and forms a tower that extends past the roofline to carry smoke up and away from the home.

8. Flue

The flue is the term for the internal passageway of the chimney. It is lined with a heat and moisture resistant material to protect the chimney structure.

9. Chimney Cap

The chimney cap is placed on top of the chimney to protect it from the weather. This feature can be decorative and add architectural detail to the home.

7 Different Types of Fireplaces

Deciding to add a fireplace to your renovation project or home build is only the first step. There are many fireplace options available to you, and each one has its own set of benefits and limitations. Here are 7 popular types of fireplaces to consider for your project.

1. Wood-burning

Wood-burning fireplaces offer old-world charm, nostalgia, and a delightful ambiance. When selecting this option, it is important to consider future maintenance, upkeep, and practicality. Wood-burning fireplaces require annual cleanings and inspections to make sure they are in safe working order. Lighting a wood fire also requires chopping and storing wood, which presents charm for some homeowners but a hassle for others. It is also essential to consider the potential health hazard of ash, soot, and smoke entering the home.

2. Gas

Gas fireplaces provide the charming ambiance of a flame at the convenience of a switch. Installation of gas units is typically easier than constructing a wood-burning fireplace, and they require less maintenance. They also offer an eco-friendly design, burning with high energy efficiency and without emitting ash and soot. However, operating costs can become expensive, depending on natural gas prices in your area.

3. Electric

Electric fireplaces typically feature sleeker and more modern designs and don’t offer the same nostalgic charm as a wood-burning or gas flame. However, they are a safe, affordable, and zero-emission solution for homeowners. Electric fireplaces are also easy to install in any room and don’t require ventilation or a chimney. In many cases, flame displays can be customized to feature unique colors and flame looks.

4. Double-sided

Double-sided fireplaces feature two openings on either side of the firebox, which allow you to see through into the next room. A double-sided fireplace is an excellent feature to place in the center of a large great room, divide a living and dining space, or establish the flow of indoor-outdoor living between a living room and patio. They are also an efficient design choice because they allow you to heat two areas with one fireplace.

Nameless Road Residence, double-sided gas fireplace

5. Masonry

Masonry fireplaces are built from brick or stone and are incorporated into the structure of the home. Masonry fireplaces are great options for new builds and additions but may prove cost-prohibitive for smaller renovation projects.

6. Mason-Lite or Isokern

Mason-Lite and Isokern are two types of prefabricated fireplace units that allow you to have the visual feel of a full masonry fireplace but with a lower cost and easier installation process. The fireplace kits are typically lighter in weight and can be paired with a surround to create a full masonry look.

7. Fireplace Inserts

Fireplace inserts are essentially metal stoves that can house wood, gas, or electric fireplaces and be inserted into existing firebox openings. A fireplace insert can help with ventilation or make for an easy fireplace conversion.

Fireplace Styles, Material Options, and Their Restrictions

All of the above fireplace types can be applied to traditional, modern, and transitional home styles with the proper material selections for the hearth, surround, and mantel. When choosing materials for your fireplace, it is crucial to follow building codes and select non-combustible materials to ensure safety and durability.

Great fireplace material options include:

● Brick

● Stone

● Tile

● Marble

● Plaster

● Concrete

● Granite

● Steel

Of course, wood mantels and built-ins can be incorporated into the design if spaced a proper distance from the firebox opening.

Do you need help designing a custom fireplace for your home?

Tell Us About Your Project

Learn the Parts of a Fireplace and Discover Perfect Fireplace Options for Your Space