adding a wood fireplace to a century home

[aliyaddison]

This may seem like a crazy question, but I would like to know if it is at all possible. We recently purchased a century home built in 1890. Although we love the home we are disappointed that it does not have a fireplace. Since we found it difficult to find an affordable home in this historical period there was little option for us but to purchase the property. I am wondering if it is at all possible to have a "real" wood fireplace added to the home or if the only option available to us would be a wood-stove. I am not interested in a gas fireplace as I would like to maintain the integrity of the property. In addition as a last resort we might consider adding a wood-stove but I really don't wish to do so. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[jtp10181]

Ok I don't know what a "century" home is. You can frame up a wall and put a wood fireplace in, and vent it out the roof. With the limited information given that's about all I can say. So what do you think would prohibit you from getting a fireplace?

 

[fossil]

Anything's possible. Do you want it pretty much invisible from the exterior, or would you like to add a masonry (brick or stone) chimney structure to the house? How the heck did they heat the place & cook in 1890 without a fireplace? Rick

 

[begreen]

If you have the money, they will come...

Instead of a traditional fireplace that will suck more heat out of the house than it generates, perhaps consider building in a modern assembly with a traditional surround. That will give you a nice look and a real heater. Something to consider with today's fuel prices.

http://www.fireplacex.com/product_guide/detail.aspx?id=96
http://www.quadrafire.com/Products/Wood_Burning/Wood_Model.asp?f=7100fp
http://www.icc-rsf.com/en/rsf/The_Topaz_fireplace_