Fireplace type may not let you put another log on the fire

DEAR DESIGNER: I have a two part question about my fireplace. I don't like the gas logs that are inside. I've seen new glass options on the market. How do I know if this is something I can utilize in my fireplace? And, is it difficult to add glass doors to the firebox? The old rocks got really dusty and I'd like to keep the dust out. -- Carol.

DEAR CAROL: 'Tis the season to cuddle up to a warm fire, which also means sprucing up your fireplace and preparing it for the cool months ahead.

If your gas fire logs are looking old, dusty and beyond repair, changing them for something different and interesting is easier now than ever before. However, not all fireplaces can accommodate the new logs, rocks and colored glass available today.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace with a gas line, your fireplace can accept the changes. But if you have what's called a decorative gas appliance, you cannot change the logs. The DGA fireplaces are all inclusive. They are UL approved and include the logs along with permanent glass doors. Most of today's newer fireplaces are DGAs but many of our existing homes still have wood-burning fireplaces with a gas line.

Carol, the fact that you don't have doors on your fireplace tells me you probably have a wood burner. And because you have existing rock and logs, it's safe to assume you have a gas line, too. You have the perfect combination to add the new firebox inserts, glass rock and glass doors.

In 2003, the Environmental Protection Agency made a final ruling on the 1990 building code provisions that regulate emission source under the Clean Air Act. The building code required that "fireplaces being constructed in new or existing dwelling units be fueled with natural gas, conform to EPA emission requirements, contain an insert that meets EPA emission requirements or their equivalent, or be decorative electrical appliances." This ruling applies to homes throughout Clark County.

What this means to you is that if you have an existing fireplace that is wood burning, with or without a gas line, this ruling doesn't affect you. However, if you are building a new home, your fireplace will have to meet the building code and EPA standards, and won't be a wood-burning fireplace. If your home was built before the ruling was enforced, you probably have a fireplace that can handle the new gas logs. If your home was built after 2003, there is a higher chance your fireplace is a DGA and the insert can not be changed.

After you've determined if your fireplace can accommodate a new insert, be sure you order the correct size. Some decorative inserts have limited sizes available while others can be custom made to fit your firebox. Basically, be sure the kit you order is a size smaller than the rear width of your firebox. For example, if the rear width is 24 inches and you wish to use a safety control (gas or propane), rather than a 24-inch set, you should select a 20- or 21-inch set.

The designer within won't allow me to finish this article solely based on facts, rules and what's available. Good design takes in much more than "I like it and it's available." Don't forget to consider the style of your home when you begin making choices about your fireplace inserts. If your firebox is already traditional, contemporary glass rock might not be your best option. If you want your firebox to look a little more contemporary, consider transitioning with big colorful rocks. If you are completely drawn to the colorful glass rock, think about also changing your doors for a more modern style.

Although much pricier, you might consider changing out the entire firebox for one of the amazing new contemporary DGAs available. There are shapes and sizes to fit every home and style.

Glass doors can almost always be installed on your fireplace. Doors can be ordered through the manufacturer of your firebox or they can be custom made. Check for a tag in the bottom or front of your firebox. The tag should describe what type of firebox you have.

When dealing with gas lines and fire, remember to call a professional. A fireplace store can walk you through all the choices available for your individual situation, making sure the transformation is safe. If you don't find a tag, call a local dealer like Silver State Fireplaces (which was helpful in educating me on this topic).

When your project is complete, grab a hot toddy, a warm blanket and a good book. Snuggle into a comfy chair near your updated fireplace and relax in the warmth of a glowing fire.

Cindy Payne is a certified interior designer with more than 25 years of experience, a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, as well as a licensed contractor. E-mail questions to her at deardesigner@projectdesigninteriors .com or send them to her at Project Design Interiors, 2620 S. Maryland Parkway, Suite 189, Las Vegas, NV 89109. She can be reached online at www.projectdesign interiors.com.