Old house: replacing modifying an old (coal?) fireplace

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progmac

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Jan 3, 2011
1
Cincinnati
I have a nice 1915 bungalow with the original front stove, modified by prior owner with gas logs. It is cast iron and very small. Too small, I think, for a comfortable wood fire. I have one cast iron grate for it, but it just sort of leans against it, too dangerous to actually use i think since it doesn't latch or secure at all.

Anyhow, the gas is nice but I don't really use it - my furnace is way more efficient and it just isn't what i want from a fireplace.

What I'd really like is a nice wood-burning stove that can heat the room. But, most everything in my house is original and I am incredibly hesitant to replace a valuable (to me) part of the original house with something modern.

I am new to all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I could get a wood burning fireplace yet maintain the look of the original?

Picture of the fireplace is attached.

Thanks so much everyone.
 

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Take your picture around or email it to stove fireplace insert dealers. Share your concerns and discuss possible options with them.
 
It looks like a good place for a small cast iron free standing stove. Do what Cal suggested. Take that photo, along with a close up of the fireplace and some measurements and check out some of the better cast stoves. Theres some Jotuls, Regencys and Hearthstones that could sit partially in the fireplace that would go along with the style of your home. So you would be adding something without removing much of the original. One measurement to be sure to take is the hearth depth from the front of the fireplace.
 
I am no salesman, but there is a efficiant stove or insert out there to fit anyone's taste or decor. Shop around a lot and take the advise here. You'll find it.
 
Need a better picture of the fireplace and a more info on the fireplace and chimney. The most basic answer is get a small wood stove, like a Jotul F400 Castine, and vent it through a liner up your chimney.
 
There are all kinds of stove options, but limited chimney options. Really check out the chimney, if you can't bring in a chimney sweep or a tech from a stove store and physically look at the flue. Not being used there may be hidden issues like cracks or separations, or wood member too close for the increased heat of a modern stove. Once you know what you have in exhaust capability you have lots of options that will not destroy or modify the value of the home. Those old "coal" grates are nice to look at, but should not be used for wood, in my opinion.
 
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