How to Prepare for Your Fireplace Installation

Having a fireplace installed in your home is cause for celebration, but there are some essential preparations you must make before flipping the switch on your new hearth. While your local authorized dealer will walk you through the process, here’s a quick run-down of what to expect.

Fireplace Installation Timeline

Leading up to installation, and afterwards, there will be several appointments (and possibly inspections) to ensure that your hearth is installed correctly and safely.

• Preview Appointment: A hearth professional will visit your space to gauge how to go about installing the fireplace, as well talk through any special considerations.
• Install Appointment: The length of the appointment will vary depending on the type of fireplace and factors such as location in the home, venting and scope of the installation.
• Permit Inspections: If applicable in your area, these will be scheduled at the installation appointment.
• Start-Up Appointment: This appointment is where the magic happens—a technician will return to your home to start the fireplace for the first time. Along with the installation appointment, this will be scheduled at the preview appointment.
• Final Inspection: If required in your city, this will be scheduled at the start-up appointment.

Preparing for a Fireplace Installation Appointment

To prepare for a smooth installation, make sure to do the following before the technician’s arrival:

• Clear an eight-foot radius around the project and a path from entry to workspace
• Cover items (such as furniture, electronics or art) and roll up any rugs within the area
• Secure pets and keep children away from the work area
• Be available at the start of the installation for an overview

Additionally, for stone installations:

• Close doors to adjoining rooms and closets to contain dust
• Consider turning off your furnace or A/C unit during installation to contain dust
• Designate a workspace outside the home for cutting stone

After Installation

Congratulations—your hearth is up and running! Keep these helpful hints in mind after installation:

• Crews do their best to clean thoroughly, but additional cleanup may be necessary after they leave
• Many cities require that homeowners install operating carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms in the home to pass inspection
• It’s common to experience an odor or haze when using your new product. This is normal and will dissipate as the product cures. Refer to your owner’s manual for recommended initial burn times to cure it.
• Stone and mortar joints will lighten in color as they dry

Follow these easy steps—and the lead of your authorized installer—and you’ll be basking in the glow of your brand-new fireplace in no time. Ready to get started on your project? Request a no-obligation consultation today.