Please excuse me if I utilize terminology that is incorrect or inaccurate.
I have a 5 year old home with a "zero clearance" fireplace. Looks nice, but does not give off much heat. I realize it is engineered that way.
I had been playing with replacing it with a wood stove. However, I am also considering an insert. From what I gather, a wood burning insert will give off much more heat than the existing zero clearance. I assume it is because there is something there (metal / stone) to actually heat up, whereas the zero clearance has nothing but sheet metal.
My question is: would it be easier to replace the zero clearance with an insert, or a wood stove? I would like to keep construction to a minimum, as well as cost. I would like to get this done for $3000 or less, including the insert or stove.
Intention is to heat up that side of the home, 1st floor only. It is about 700 sq. feet or so (maybe 1000).
I have attached photos of the existing zero clearance fireplace.
Any feedback would be appreciated - thanks!
I have a 5 year old home with a "zero clearance" fireplace. Looks nice, but does not give off much heat. I realize it is engineered that way.
I had been playing with replacing it with a wood stove. However, I am also considering an insert. From what I gather, a wood burning insert will give off much more heat than the existing zero clearance. I assume it is because there is something there (metal / stone) to actually heat up, whereas the zero clearance has nothing but sheet metal.
My question is: would it be easier to replace the zero clearance with an insert, or a wood stove? I would like to keep construction to a minimum, as well as cost. I would like to get this done for $3000 or less, including the insert or stove.
Intention is to heat up that side of the home, 1st floor only. It is about 700 sq. feet or so (maybe 1000).
I have attached photos of the existing zero clearance fireplace.
Any feedback would be appreciated - thanks!