Can you put a Fireplace on any Wall?

Fireplaces make a fantastic addition to properties. They are extremely thermally efficient, low maintenance, and full of visual appeal.

Plus, what many property owners don’t realise is, they’re also very easy to install!

In fact, fireplaces can easily be installed on almost any wall. In some cases, this can even be achieved without the need for any add-ons, extra features or steps.

So, to find out whether a wall in your property is suitable for the addition of a fireplace, keep reading.

Below, we’ve shared a quick guide to installation requirements for electric and gas fireplaces, and for fireplaces on both interior and exterior walls.

Installing an Electric Fireplace

Generally speaking, you can install an electric fireplace on any wall of your home. This includes both interior walls, or on the inside of an exterior wall.

Fireplaces are extremely easy to install, as they do not require access to a chimney or any ventilation. As a result, they are extremely flexible and versatile.

Installing a Gas Fireplace

When it comes to gas fireplaces and wood burning stoves, you will need access to either a flue or a chimney. This is because gas fireplaces require some form of ventilation.

It is essential that gas fireplaces have access to air on the outside of the property, to ensure their safe usage.

So, if the wall does not already have a ventilation system in place, then you will need to have one installed.

In theory, you can have a gas fireplace installed on any wall. But, you will need the correct ventilation, which is routed to the property’s exterior. If this is not already fixed on your intended wall, it will increase the total cost of adding the fireplace.

Fireplaces on Interior Walls

Requirements for electrical fireplaces:

• The fireplace will need access to an electrical outlet.
• The wall will need to be able to support the fireplace’s weight.

Requirements for gas fireplaces:

• The unit will need ventilation to the air outside the property.
• The wall will need to have the correct ventilation systems in place, including either a flue or a chimney.
• The fireplace will need to be able to access a natural gas line.
• The wall will need to be able to support the fireplace’s weight.

Fireplaces on External Walls

For electrical fireplaces, the requirements are the same for external walls as they are for internal walls.

For gas fireplaces, the requirements are also the same as they are for internal walls. However, the key advantage of installing a gas fireplace on an external wall is that access to air outside of the property will be easier. So, choosing an external wall may make the installation process faster and more affordable (for gas fireplaces).

Conclusion: Can you put a fireplace on any wall?

As you can see, fireplaces are extremely versatile additions, and offer a flexible solution for property owners (even when wall space is limited!).

You can install either a gas or an electric fireplace on most walls.

However, in instances where the wall does not offer easy access to ventilation, then opting for an electric fireplace is an easier and more cost-effective option.

To learn more about the differences between electric fireplaces and gas fireplaces, or get expert advice on the best solution for your property, contact the team at Rotherham Fireplace Centre for a quote.