Home of the San Francisco Chronicle

Subscribe to the weekend Chronicle

powered by
Discussions
Photos
Products
Ideabooks
Discussions
Professionals
Users
by deena1927
3 months ago in Design Dilemma
Advice on how to go about converting an original fireplace in our house built in 1960 to a gas fireplace.
Picture shows the original fireplace we would like converted to a gas fireplace. What is involved and what kind is recommended as well as what exactly are the complete steps to having this installed from start to finish. Thank you in advance
Share:
 
Deborah Butler, Brickwood Builders Appears to be a wood burning fireplace. You would select a set of gas logs (not a full fireplace box) that fit the size of your fireplace. Take your measurements of the fireplace and you can get guidance on the size of logs needed. The logs should be installed by a quailified company that can run the gas line into the fireplace and then attach the logs. Most large plumbing companies also have the license to install gas lines and fireplaces. Some HVAC companies will also run the line and install. The damper on the fireplace will be permanently fixed to an open position so you must have glass doors to close off the fireplace and prevent heat loss in the house.
3 months ago ·
deena1927 Thank you very much. Yes, I was remiss in saying it is a wood burning fireplace. I appreciate your response to my question.
3 months ago ·
AMN We just replaced an existing set of gas logs in our fireplace (house built ca. 1961). An easy process right? No. DH did a ton of research. We went to the fireplace store thinking we knew everything, and ended up learning way more that we expected about gas logs for our uniquely-shaped fireplace.

So, the moral of the story is to measure the dimensions of your fireplace, surround, mantel, and firebox (don't hesitate to sketch it out), and bring that to a good fireplace/casual lifestyle store. They were immensely helpful to us. We love our new set!

Ms. Butler, above, is right about the gas line stuff. You'll have to figure out vented vs. vent free, etc. Best wishes for making the conversion! (Can't beat Duchamp's Nude Descending a Staircase No. 2, by the way. Love that painting)
3 months ago ·
Deborah Butler, Brickwood Builders Oh, I also meant to say we use Peterson logs.
3 months ago ·
deena1927 Thanks to Deborah and AMN for all your great advice about converting our log burning fireplace to a gas fireplace.
Very helpful! We will have to do a lot of research for sure before proceeding.
Not sure this type of conversion can be done during the winter months?
It is part of my 50th wedding anniversary present and birthday present from my hubby which also includes having our kitchen renovated ongoing now. Quite the present for sure!
Yes, my hubby and I share your love for Duchamp's Nude Descending a Staircase.
We actually saw the real thing in Philadelphia many many years ago. Marvelous!
Thanks again!
3 months ago · ·
ann We purchased our gas logs from the Gas company, they ran a line also
3 months ago ·
Sign Up to comment
The content on this page is provided by Houzz and is subject to the Houzz terms of use, copyright and privacy policy.
Copyright claims: contact the Houzz designated agent.