p>Your fireplace is the focal point of the room. Once the only heat source, today, a fireplace figures more as an enhancement for warmth and décor. The fireplace will usually dictate the feel and function of a room. Formal and elegant or casual and family friendly, the fireplace is a place to gather, share drinks and stories, curl up with a cozy quilt and a good book, or give ambiance to a romantic supper or a spooky movie. Your fireplace helps to warm a chilly room and says welcome, come and sit.

It is important to keep the fireplace in good working order. Clean out spent ashes and sweep the flue for efficient and safe operation. Affix a spark arrester in the chimney to prevent roofs and overhanging tree branches from dangerous embers. The hearth should be clear of flammable objects, and a screen will help guard against sparks on carpets; please note that glass doors should be left open when you are burning a fire. Children should ever be left alone in a room with a fire blazing. Large piles of wood attract pests, so store wood outside and carry smaller amounts inside as you need them.

Whether remodeling or constructing a new fireplace, you will find a myriad of styles and designs to choose from. Your local fireplace store can suggest ideas once they know how your fireplace relates to the space. For example, choose brick for a county look or imported marble for classic elegance. The mantle can be hand hewn timbers or a masterpiece of carved wood.

Types of fireplaces vary and include gas, electric, wood, and pellet. Many cities are offering hefty rebates on the installation of efficient wood or pellet stoves or inserts. The new electric fireplaces are a good option when adding fireplaces to existing rooms. They do not require a chimney and will heat up to 150 square feet, making them ideal for single room applications such as a bedroom. Imagine the ultimate bathroom complete with a soaker tub and a fireplace.

Custom Fireside, family owned and operated in Roseville, Ca. since 1968, has a long standing record of service and provides quality products at competitive prices. Services include on-site consultations, full installation, warranty, and after-market service. Custom Fireside has a complete selection of brands and styles of fireplaces to suit your needs. Look for Custom Fireside online. Let Custom Fireside light your fire.