Why Open Fires Are Still An Option Even In A Timber Frame Building

For many people, having an open fire can be the making of a home; it creates a central focal point for visitors, as well as providing valuable heat during the cold winter months. Although many homes have open fires installed many years after the build of the property, some house builders choose to install an open fire during the build of a new home.

However, builders who make beautiful timber frame buildings are often informed by their customers that they are concerned about having a stove or open fire installed due to the fire risk. This is a common misconception. With modern building regulations and qualified installers it is perfectly possible to create a flame proof flue and fire place. These fires are as safe as any other and therefore safety need not be compromised by having a wood burning fire in a timber framed property.

Customers who are considering the hidden timber frame construction may also be concerned about installing an open fire in a timber frame property. The same building regulations will ensure a safe environment to light a fire on all occasions. Open fires in particular offer additional opportunities to create ventilation in timber frame houses – unlike wood burning stoves.

Modern homes are so well sealed that providing sufficient ventilation to comply with building regulations can be a real challenge – some even struggle with moss on the windows as there is insufficient ventilation. An open fire is one of the few remaining permissible sources of ventilation into a building yet they can still be an efficient source of heating. Stoves offer a reduced benefit as they are effectively sealed to the room.

Although there are countless modern fires on the market which will suit the majority of homes, nothing can quite beat the aroma and character of a traditional open fire, even in a modern building. There are plenty of mass produced open fires which can be fitted into many homes, yet they are not always suitable for the existing character of the property or they may simply just not fit the dimensions of the fireplace.