Introduction Adding a Fireplace
There’s something timeless and universally cherished about the warm glow of a fireplace. Whether it’s the cozy ambiance of flickering flames on a cold evening or the visual charm it brings to a thoughtfully designed living space, a fireplace is often considered a hallmark of comfort, luxury, and elevated home design. Many homeowners dream of curling up beside a hearth with a good book or gathering loved ones around the fire, but not every house is originally built with one.
Here’s the good news: if your current home doesn’t feature a fireplace, a fireplace addition is still very much within reach. In fact, with today’s range of innovative fireplace solutions and flexible installation options, adding a fireplace to your home has never been easier or more accessible. From sleek electric units that require no venting to traditional masonry fireplaces that exude rustic charm, there’s a perfect option for virtually any home layout and aesthetic.
According to MGS Contracting Services, a trusted local contractor with years of experience in high-quality home remodeling and specialty installations, “Homeowners are often surprised at how feasible it is to incorporate a fireplace, even into older homes or tighter spaces. With proper planning and the right materials, a fireplace addition can become the stunning centerpiece of any room.”
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about adding a fireplace to your home, whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance electric fireplace in your bedroom, a dramatic stone fireplace wall in your living room, or a charming gas insert for your family den. We’ll cover the different types of fireplaces, the most suitable locations for installation, building code considerations, and how to select the right fireplace style based on your home’s existing structure and heating needs.
We’ll also explore why, despite not always offering a full return on investment in dollar-for-dollar resale value, a fireplace addition remains one of the most emotionally and visually rewarding upgrades you can make to your home. Fireplaces not only elevate your interior aesthetics, they add comfort, character, and resale appeal, making them a worthwhile feature that enhances both function and lifestyle.
Whether you’re renovating your forever home or preparing your property for future buyers, this guide, grounded in the insight of MGS Contracting Services, a professional remodeling expert, will walk you through the essentials of a successful fireplace addition from start to finish.
CREDIT: PINTEREST
1. Can You Add a Fireplace to an Existing Home? Adding a Fireplace
Short Answer: Yes, In Almost All Cases Adding a Fireplace
One of the most common misconceptions homeowners have is that if their home wasn’t originally built with a fireplace, they’re out of luck. But that’s far from the truth. A fireplace addition is not only possible in most existing homes, it’s also a highly sought-after upgrade that brings warmth, elegance, and character to any living space. Whether you’re aiming for rustic charm or sleek modern aesthetics, there’s likely a fireplace solution that fits your home’s unique structure and style.
Why Your Home’s Layout Matters Adding a Fireplace
According to MGS Contracting Services, almost any home can be retrofitted with a fireplace, but success lies in proper planning. The layout of your home plays a critical role in determining which type of fireplace can be installed and where it can be placed. For example, a two-story home may have limited vertical space for a traditional chimney system, whereas a single-story home often offers more flexibility for venting and framing options.
MGS Contracting emphasizes that identifying an appropriate location, whether it’s an exterior wall, a central living space, or even a bedroom, is the first and most important step. The fireplace unit must not only align with your aesthetic goals but also integrate safely with your home’s infrastructure. This includes evaluating available wall space, ceiling height, and access to a vent path, especially for wood-burning or gas fireplaces.
Understand the Building Codes & Safety Regulations Adding a Fireplace
Any fireplace addition must adhere to your local building codes and safety standards. These codes govern essential requirements such as:
- Minimum clearance distances from combustible materials
- Proper chimney and venting specifications
- Weight and load-bearing limits for floors and framing
- Smoke and carbon monoxide protection measures
Failing to follow these regulations can lead to serious safety hazards and potential issues with home insurance. That’s why MGS Contracting Services always conducts a thorough code-compliance assessment before beginning any installation. They stress that each jurisdiction may have slightly different requirements, so it’s essential to work with a contractor who is familiar with local code enforcement offices and permit processes.
The Role of Professional Evaluation Adding a Fireplace
While DIY fireplace kits and electric units are widely available, most fireplace additions, especially those involving gas or wood-burning systems, require expert planning and precision installation. MGS Contracting strongly recommends having your home professionally evaluated before choosing a fireplace type.
During this evaluation, a professional contractor will:
- Inspect wall and floor structures to determine load-bearing capacity
- Evaluate your HVAC system to ensure proper air circulation
- Locate existing plumbing, electrical, and framing features that could impact installation
- Determine the best venting solution based on your home’s architecture
This pre-installation planning ensures not only safety but also efficiency and longevity of your new fireplace. Plus, it can help identify opportunities to enhance your design, such as integrating custom mantels, tilework, or built-in shelving.
2. Types of Fireplaces to Consider Adding a Fireplace
When planning a fireplace addition, choosing the right type of fireplace is crucial, not only for functionality and aesthetic, but also for long-term efficiency and safety. According to MGS Contracting Services, homeowners are often surprised at how many options are available, each with distinct advantages depending on your home’s layout, budget, and design preferences. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the four primary types of fireplaces to consider when enhancing your home with this cozy, value-adding feature.
a. Wood-Burning Masonry Fireplaces Adding a Fireplace
Traditional, Timeless, and Atmosphere-Rich Adding a Fireplace
For those seeking the authentic experience of crackling logs, the rich scent of burning wood, and the unmistakable ambiance of a live flame, wood-burning masonry fireplaces remain the gold standard. These fireplaces are constructed from brick, stone, or concrete, and are built into the structure of the home with a full chimney system to safely vent smoke and combustion gases.
According to MGS Contracting Services, this type of fireplace addition is most often requested by clients who are passionate about traditional craftsmanship and want to make a bold architectural statement. However, homeowners should be prepared for a more involved construction process. A masonry fireplace typically requires significant structural modifications, including the installation of a flue, damper, hearth, and chimney, all of which must comply with local building and fire codes.
“Wood-burning fireplaces are unmatched for character, but they do require more up-front investment and proper planning,” says MGS Contracting Services. “We often work with homeowners to ensure there’s adequate vertical clearance for the chimney and that reinforcement of floor joists is addressed.”
These fireplaces are best suited for larger homes or renovations where long-term aesthetics outweigh speed and budget constraints. While they may not be the most energy-efficient heat source, they are undeniably appealing and can serve as a breathtaking focal point.
b. Direct-Vent Gas Fireplaces Adding a Fireplace
Convenient, Efficient, and Quick to Install Adding a Fireplace
For those who want the warmth and visual effect of real flames without the mess and maintenance of wood, direct-vent gas fireplaces are an ideal choice. These systems draw air from outside for combustion and expel the exhaust gases outdoors through a vent pipe, usually through an exterior wall or roof.
As MGS Contracting Services explains, fireplace additions using gas systems are among the fastest to install, often completed in just one to two days. Because they don’t require a full masonry chimney, they’re less invasive to your home’s structure and more budget-friendly.
“We recommend direct-vent gas fireplaces for clients who want the beauty of fire with minimal hassle,” notes MGS Contracting Services. “They’re great for busy households and work well in both modern and transitional home designs.”
Gas fireplaces also offer exceptional energy efficiency and precise heat control, often featuring remote operation and built-in thermostats. Many models come with realistic ceramic logs or stones, combining the visual appeal of a wood fire with modern ease of use.
c. Electric Fireplaces Adding a Fireplace
Venting-Free, Flexible, and Low Maintenance Adding a Fireplace
When budget, flexibility, and simplicity are top priorities, electric fireplaces deliver. These systems require no venting, making them perfect for condos, apartments, basements, and any room where ductwork or chimney access is limited or nonexistent.
Electric fireplaces offer plug-and-play installation, some are wall-mounted, others are built-in units, and many come with customizable LED flame settings and heat output. MGS Contracting Services notes that many of their design-focused clients gravitate toward electric fireplaces for clean, modern aesthetics.
“Electric units are perfect for homeowners who want design flexibility without permanent construction,” says MGS. “We install these often in minimalist spaces, bedrooms, or media rooms where a traditional fireplace isn’t practical.”
They’re also low-maintenance, producing no smoke, soot, or ash. While they may not provide as much heat as gas or wood systems, they’re excellent for zone heating and ambiance.
d. Zero-Clearance (Prefabricated) Fireplaces Adding a Fireplace
Budget-Friendly, Safe, and Space-Conscious Adding a Fireplace
Zero-clearance fireplaces, also known as prefabricated fireplaces, are a fantastic option for homeowners seeking a cost-effective fireplace addition that doesn’t require a full renovation. These units are factory-built and enclosed in fire-safe housing, allowing them to be installed close to combustible materials, such as wood framing, drywall, or flooring.
MGS Contracting Services often recommends these systems for remodels or homes with limited space, particularly when clients want to add a fireplace to a second story, a master bedroom, or even a small home office.
“Zero-clearance fireplaces are a game-changer for tight spaces or budget-driven renovations,” MGS explains. “They’re lightweight, require minimal framing, and offer a wide range of styles, from rustic to ultra-modern.”
Installation is relatively quick, and these systems are available in wood, gas, or electric models, giving you further flexibility in choosing the right match for your home.
Choosing the right fireplace addition depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and how you intend to use the fireplace, whether it’s for warmth, ambiance, resale value, or all three. MGS Contracting Services advises homeowners to schedule an in-home assessment before making a final decision.
“Every home is different, and the best fireplace is the one that complements both the layout and the way you live,” they conclude. “We’re here to walk you through the options, from permits and code compliance to finish selections.”
3. Where Should You Install the Fireplace? Adding a Fireplace
The placement of your fireplace addition plays a crucial role in determining the cost, complexity, and overall efficiency of the installation. Whether you’re envisioning cozy evenings in the living room or a luxurious master suite retreat, choosing the right location is essential to getting the most out of your investment.
Why Placement Matters in a Fireplace Addition Adding a Fireplace
A well-placed fireplace not only enhances the ambiance of a room, it also influences the structural modifications required, the type of fireplace you can install, and how easily the unit can be vented to the outside. According to MGS Contracting Services, experienced home improvement contractors, “the installation process is typically most efficient when the fireplace is located along an exterior wall, especially for gas or wood-burning fireplaces that require venting or a chimney.” Exterior wall placement allows for more straightforward vent routing, reducing the amount of demolition and reconstruction needed within your home.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re locked into limited options. One of the major benefits of a modern fireplace addition is the flexibility in design and technology. For instance, electric fireplaces and some ventless gas models offer placement freedom since they do not require a traditional flue or chimney system. This makes them a viable choice for interior walls, bedrooms, and even finished basements.
Floor Reinforcement: Don’t Skip the Structural Check Adding a Fireplace
Adding a fireplace, especially a masonry or zero-clearance unit, often means introducing significant weight to your home’s structure. If you’re installing a wood-burning or factory-built fireplace, floor reinforcement may be required to safely support the added load.
MGS Contracting Services recommends a structural assessment before beginning your fireplace addition, especially in upper-story installations or older homes with questionable support systems. “Proper weight distribution and joist reinforcement can prevent future damage and ensure your new fireplace is safe and up to code,” they advise.
Room-by-Room Fireplace Addition Considerations Adding a Fireplace
Each room in your home offers unique possibilities, and challenges, when it comes to installing a fireplace:
- Living Rooms: The most popular location for a fireplace addition, this is the natural heart of the home. Placing the unit here enhances comfort, becomes a design focal point, and may require fewer modifications due to larger available wall space.
- Bedrooms: More and more homeowners are opting for a fireplace in the master suite to add luxury and warmth. Electric and direct-vent gas models are especially suited to bedrooms, offering both style and safety with minimal construction requirements.
- Basements: These spaces often benefit from a fireplace addition, as they tend to be cooler and less inviting. However, basement installations can be more complex due to limited exterior access and potential venting challenges. Always consult a professional contractor to ensure proper airflow and code compliance.
- Kitchens or Dining Areas: A trending design idea, fireplaces in these rooms add warmth and a high-end look. Zero-clearance or wall-mounted electric fireplaces are typically best for these tighter spaces.
Customization is Possible With Professional Guidance Adding a Fireplace
While certain placements may simplify the process, don’t feel limited. Fireplace additions today are highly customizable, and professional contractors like MGS Contracting Services are equipped to help homeowners find creative solutions based on their layout, goals, and budget. They emphasize the importance of a consultation to explore options, assess feasibility, and ensure local building codes are met.
“Whether it’s the living room, bedroom, or even a unique location like a bathroom or outdoor wall, there’s almost always a way to make it work,” says MGS. “The key is understanding the structural, mechanical, and aesthetic implications before making a final decision.”
Pro Tip from MGS Contracting Services: Adding a Fireplace
“Think long-term when planning your fireplace addition. It’s not just about where it fits today, but how it contributes to your home’s function and flow for years to come.”
4. Building Code & Structural Considerations for Your Fireplace Addition Adding a Fireplace
When planning a fireplace addition, one of the most critical, and often overlooked, aspects is ensuring full compliance with local building codes and structural requirements. According to MGS Contracting Services, this phase is not just about ticking legal boxes but about guaranteeing safety, longevity, and optimal performance of your new fireplace installation.
The Vital Role of Local Building Codes Adding a Fireplace
Every municipality or region enforces specific building codes that govern how fireplaces can be installed. These codes address crucial safety factors including minimum clearances around vent pipes, acceptable emissions levels, types of venting allowed, and fire safety distances from combustible materials.
For example, there are strict rules on how close a chimney or vent pipe can be to wooden framing or other combustible surfaces to prevent fire hazards. Some codes also dictate the type of materials used for chimney liners and ventilation to ensure they withstand high temperatures and prevent carbon monoxide leakage. Non-compliance with these codes can lead to dangerous conditions and costly penalties.
MGS Contracting Services stresses the importance of consulting these codes early in the planning process. “Ignoring or misinterpreting local building codes not only jeopardizes safety but can also lead to costly rework, failed inspections, or even the need to remove the fireplace after installation,” they advise.
Understanding Firebox, Damper, and Chimney Dimensions Adding a Fireplace
The firebox, the part of the fireplace where the fire actually burns, must be sized and constructed carefully. Its dimensions affect combustion efficiency, heat output, and safety. A firebox that is too small can restrict airflow and create excessive smoke, while one that is too large can waste fuel and increase emissions.
The damper, which controls airflow and prevents heat loss when the fireplace is not in use, also has specific size requirements. Proper damper sizing ensures that smoke vents correctly and that the fireplace maintains energy efficiency.
Similarly, chimney dimensions are not arbitrary. They must be appropriately sized to ensure proper draft, which is the upward flow of air that draws smoke and gases out of the home. Chimneys that are too narrow can cause smoke to spill into the living space, while overly large chimneys may not draft efficiently, resulting in wasted heat and potential safety risks.
MGS Contracting Services highlights that understanding these technical details is essential to a successful fireplace addition. They recommend working with experienced professionals who can accurately calculate and implement these measurements based on your home’s unique characteristics.
Structural Reinforcement: Joists, Framing, and Load-Bearing Adding a Fireplace
Adding a fireplace, especially a masonry or wood-burning type, introduces significant additional weight to your home’s structure. This means the floor joists supporting the fireplace location must often be reinforced to handle the extra load safely.
MGS Contracting Services points out that failing to reinforce joists can lead to sagging floors, cracking walls, and even structural failure over time. Reinforcement might include sistering joists, adding additional joists alongside existing ones, or installing steel beams or support posts to redistribute weight.
Beyond joists, the home’s framing may need modification to accommodate the fireplace’s size and the chimney’s routing. This could involve cutting and reinforcing studs or headers and ensuring that fire-resistant materials are properly installed around the fireplace cavity.
Adhering to safety standards here is non-negotiable. MGS Contracting Services ensures that all framing modifications comply with local building codes and are designed to maintain the home’s structural integrity. They use detailed engineering plans and collaborate with inspectors to guarantee every fireplace addition is both legal and durable.
When considering a fireplace addition, prioritizing building code compliance and structural considerations is essential for a safe, effective, and code-approved installation. MGS Contracting Services recommends early engagement with building officials and skilled contractors to navigate these requirements successfully, making your fireplace addition a beautiful and lasting enhancement to your home.
5. Does Adding a Fireplace Add Value to Your Home? A Closer Look at Financial and Lifestyle Benefits of a Fireplace Addition Adding a Fireplace
When considering a fireplace addition to your home, one of the first questions homeowners often ask is: Will this renovation increase my home’s value? While fireplaces are undeniably charming and comforting, the financial return on investment (ROI) from adding a fireplace can be more nuanced than it appears at first glance.
Financial ROI May Be Limited, But Not Insignificant Adding a Fireplace
According to MGS Contracting Services, the financial ROI on a fireplace addition tends to be moderate at best. Unlike kitchen remodels or bathroom upgrades, which often recoup a large percentage of their costs upon resale, fireplaces generally do not add a dollar-for-dollar increase to your home’s appraised value. This is largely because appraisers factor fireplaces as part of overall home desirability and ambiance rather than a discrete value-adding element.
However, that does not mean the investment is without merit. A well-designed fireplace can make your property more attractive on the market, potentially leading to a quicker sale or standing out in competitive neighborhoods. Furthermore, high-quality fireplaces paired with elegant design and craftsmanship might add value in specific regional markets where fireplaces are highly sought after due to climate or cultural preferences.
Emotional and Buyer Appeal Are Strong Drivers Adding a Fireplace
While the pure financial gain might be modest, the emotional appeal of a fireplace is significant. Fireplaces evoke warmth, comfort, and a sense of home , qualities that buyers often seek but cannot quantify easily in dollars. MGS Contracting Services emphasizes that this emotional connection frequently translates into a stronger buyer interest and an enhanced sense of luxury in your living space.
A fireplace addition can transform an ordinary room into a cozy gathering place for family and friends, elevate your home’s ambiance during colder months, and serve as a stunning focal point that boosts curb appeal. This emotional and lifestyle enhancement often resonates deeply with prospective buyers, many of whom prioritize comfort and aesthetic appeal over pure financial metrics.
Fireplaces Are a Lifestyle Investment, Not Just a Resale Strategy Adding a Fireplace
Industry professionals at MGS Contracting Services recommend that homeowners approach a fireplace addition primarily as a lifestyle upgrade rather than a pure investment for resale value. This mindset encourages you to focus on how the fireplace enhances your daily living experience, home enjoyment, and overall satisfaction , aspects that can often outweigh the financial calculations.
A fireplace can improve your quality of life by providing reliable warmth during winter, reducing heating costs in some cases, and serving as a beautiful architectural feature that personalizes your home. This kind of investment pays dividends every day you live in your home, even if the direct financial return at sale time is limited.
Data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB): Buyer Preferences Highlight the Value of a Fireplace
Supporting the value of fireplaces beyond just financial numbers, data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that over 50% of prospective homebuyers list fireplaces as either a desirable or essential feature in their home search. This statistic underscores the broad appeal of fireplaces and suggests that a fireplace addition could make your home more competitive in the real estate market.
Buyers who prioritize fireplaces often envision cozy nights, family gatherings, and a welcoming atmosphere , factors that can lead to emotional attachment and increased willingness to pay a premium for homes featuring this amenity.
While the direct financial return of a fireplace addition might be limited according to MGS Contracting Services, the significant emotional appeal and strong buyer demand make fireplaces an attractive upgrade for homeowners seeking to enhance both their lifestyle and the marketability of their home. For homeowners looking to invest in their comfort and potentially attract more buyers when selling, a fireplace addition is a smart and rewarding choice.
6. Ready to Add a Fireplace? Here’s How to Get Started with MGS Contracting Services
Adding a fireplace to your home is a transformative upgrade that brings warmth, charm, and increased comfort to your living space. However, the process of a fireplace addition involves more than just picking a style and lighting a fire , it requires careful planning, adherence to building codes, and professional installation expertise to ensure safety, functionality, and aesthetic harmony with your home. That’s why consulting with an experienced contractor is the essential first step before you begin your fireplace project.
Why Consult with a Professional for Your Fireplace Addition? Adding a Fireplace
A fireplace is a significant structural and design element. From determining the ideal location to selecting the right type of fireplace, and ensuring proper venting and safety measures, each aspect requires a specialized understanding of construction, local building codes, and material compatibility. An expert contractor brings this knowledge to the table, helping you avoid common pitfalls such as improper vent installation, inadequate clearance from combustible materials, or inefficient heat distribution.
Moreover, every home is unique. Factors such as your home’s architecture, available space, existing heating system, and your lifestyle preferences will influence the best fireplace solution for you. A professional contractor can perform a thorough assessment of your home’s structure, roofing, and foundation to provide a customized plan that fits your specific needs , maximizing comfort and minimizing disruptions during installation.
How MGS Contracting Services Can Help with Your Fireplace Addition Adding a Fireplace
At MGS Contracting Services, we specialize in tailored fireplace installation solutions designed to match any style, budget, or space constraints. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic wood-burning masonry fireplace with a timeless stone façade, a sleek and efficient direct-vent gas fireplace, or a modern zero-clearance model that fits seamlessly into your contemporary décor, we have the expertise to make it happen.
Our team walks you through every stage of the fireplace addition process:
- Initial Consultation and Home Assessment: We evaluate your home’s structure, available installation locations, and any necessary reinforcements or modifications.
- Customized Fireplace Design: We help you select a fireplace type and style that complements your home’s interior design while ensuring optimal functionality.
- Permitting and Code Compliance: MGS Contracting Services handles all local building permits and inspections, making sure your fireplace addition meets or exceeds safety and code requirements.
- Professional Installation: Our skilled technicians perform precise, efficient installation using top-quality materials and industry-best practices.
- Post-Installation Support: We provide guidance on fireplace maintenance, operation, and warranty information to keep your new addition running smoothly for years to come.
The Value of Professional Guidance in Fireplace Addition Adding a Fireplace
Choosing to add a fireplace is an exciting home improvement decision , but without the right expertise, it can become costly or unsafe. With MGS Contracting Services, you’re investing not just in a beautiful new feature, but in peace of mind. Our commitment to excellence and personalized service ensures your fireplace will be a stunning, safe, and efficient centerpiece in your home.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of fireplace addition and want to work with a trusted contractor who prioritizes your vision and safety, reach out to MGS Contracting Services today. Let us help you bring warmth and elegance into your home with a fireplace that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Conclusion: Fireplace Addition, A Doable and Rewarding Home Upgrade Adding a Fireplace
Adding a fireplace to your home is not only completely doable but also one of the most rewarding improvements you can make. A fireplace addition instantly elevates the ambiance, comfort, and aesthetic appeal of your living space. Whether you’re dreaming of cozy winter nights, a stylish focal point in your living room, or increasing your home’s overall appeal, a fireplace is a timeless upgrade that enhances daily living.
Why a Fireplace Addition Is Within Reach Adding a Fireplace
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that adding a fireplace requires major structural changes, excessive costs, or complicated installations only suitable for new builds. However, with today’s variety of fireplace options, ranging from traditional wood-burning to sleek gas and electric models, there are solutions tailored to almost every home style, budget, and lifestyle. Modern technology and materials have significantly simplified fireplace installation, reducing the disruption and timeline associated with this popular home upgrade.
The Importance of Professional Expertise Adding a Fireplace
While adding a fireplace is definitely feasible, the process involves important technical, safety, and regulatory considerations. This is where professional contractors like MGS Contracting Services come in. Experts with the right skills, experience, and knowledge of local building codes ensure that your fireplace addition is installed safely, efficiently, and customized to your unique home layout. From assessing structural support and ventilation needs to selecting the ideal fireplace type and managing permits, MGS Contracting Services handles every detail with precision.
Their professional guidance helps avoid costly mistakes such as improper venting, inadequate clearances from combustible materials, or incorrect sizing, which can compromise safety and performance. A well-executed fireplace addition not only meets all code requirements but also maximizes energy efficiency and usability, ensuring years of enjoyment with minimal maintenance.
A Personalized Fireplace Addition Tailored to You Adding a Fireplace
At MGS Contracting Services, the focus is on providing a fireplace addition experience that’s tailored to your needs and style preferences. Whether you want the rustic charm of a wood-burning masonry fireplace or the convenience of a direct-vent gas fireplace, they work closely with you to design and install the perfect fireplace that complements your home’s architecture and your lifestyle. This personalized approach guarantees a finished product that feels like a natural and seamless part of your living space.
Take the Next Step Today Adding a Fireplace
If you’ve been considering a fireplace addition, now is the perfect time to make your vision a reality. Don’t let misconceptions about cost or complexity hold you back from enjoying the warmth, style, and value a fireplace can bring to your home. Reach out to MGS Contracting Services today to schedule a consultation or request a quote. Their team of trusted professionals is ready to guide you through every step of the process, from initial design concepts to final installation, ensuring your fireplace addition is smooth, stress-free, and exactly what you envisioned. Adding a Fireplace