Adding a fireplace to your home can be a game-changer. In addition to providing light if the power goes out and an extra source of heat if the power goes out, a fireplace can even add a significant amount of value to your home. Yet preparing for a fireplace installation can be a project in and of itself. Keep reading below for four major things you should remember to do in order to get ready for the installation.
Clear a Path
One of the first things you will want to do is ensure there is a clear walkway between the front door of your home and the hearth. Because professional installers will be carrying heavy equipment and materials in and out of your home over the course of several hours, you want to minimize the possibility of any obstacles, no matter how minor. This includes rugs, which are often the most common source of trips and falls during installation.
Move or Cover Up Nearby Furniture
Smaller pieces of furniture should be moved prior to the installation as well, even if they are not in the way. Larger pieces of furniture can be covered with simple plastic sheeting if they are too heavy or awkward to move on short notice. Both should be done in order to avoid getting dust and debris on furniture that you will use regularly after the installation.
Turn Off HVAC Units
One of the easiest things to forget to do before a fireplace installation is also one of the most important. Failing to turn off a heating or air conditioning unit can easily mean that dust and debris are spread throughout the house, even into rooms that are not adjacent to the one in which work is being done. If you have a dust mite allergy, this can be especially frustrating for days to come, so it is worthwhile to double-check that all HVAC systems have been turned off prior to installation.
Set Aside a Work Area
Before beginning any fireplace installation, talk with a contractor about where on your property is best for any last-minute work that needs to be done. If you are having a stone or brick fireplace installed, for example, a work area in your front yard could prove to be convenient for cutting the material. A designated space makes it much easier for everyone involved, and is safer as a result.
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