As the cool winter air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fireplace. A fireplace isn’t just a functional heating source; it’s a centerpiece that can transform your living room into a cozy retreat. At Gerstad Builders, we understand the allure of a fireplace and offer it as a customizable option in our new homes in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Benefits of a Fireplace

Energy Efficiency

While often associated with high energy consumption, modern gas fireplaces are designed to be energy efficient. Wood fireplaces lose about 80-90% of their heat up the chimney, making them insufficient at warming up your home (although they certainly provide a cozy atmosphere!). It is also common for the warm air in your home to escape up the chimney, further proving that gas fireplaces are your top choice for comfort this winter. A typical gas fireplace only wastes 20-30% of its heat, which is significant in comparison to its wood-burning competitors.

Aesthetics

Fireplaces can elevate the style and ambiance of your living room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Heat & Glo, our fireplace vendor, offers various trims and finishes to fit any home décor style. Whether you want a brick interior or fade-resistant black panels, there are so many options to add personal touches to your fireplace.

Healthy Benefits

As you unwind by the fireplace, you receive a full sensory experience that promotes relaxation and mental well-being. In addition to providing warmth for you and your family, a fireplace creates a crackling sound that can be soothing after a long day and a gentle light that is soft on your eyes in comparison to traditional lighting sources.

Fireplace Design Options

Heat & Glo is committed to providing its customers with fireplaces that showcase innovation and attention to detail. With more than 1,200 authorized dealers across the country, we receive expert assistance with installation. Each fireplace features forged-iron fronts, stainless-steel burners, hand-painted details and LED lights and embers. Its SlimLine collection showcases slender fireplaces that will fit where others won’t with multiple sizes, models and finishing options.

Standard Fireplace Options

The Heat & Glow SlimLine SL-7 fits medium to large rooms with its 36-inch frame. When you select the SL-7 model, you can choose from two interior panels selections – Stratford brick or fade-resistant black glass – and it comes with an optional fan kit, touchscreen remote control, a wall switch and IntelliFire® app and voice control.

With five standard-definition logs, glowing embers and tempered glass, your SL-7 fireplace is sure to capture attention as it turns up the heat in your home.

Upgrade Options

The SL-7X is also 36 inches in width but with more heat and luxury details. This fireplace is outfitted with high-definition logs, LED embers and a ceramic glass front. Its thermal output is slightly higher than the SL-7 and ensures that your family stays toasty on cold winter days. You have a choice of three interior panels, including Stratford brick, Tranquil Greige brick and fade-resistant black glass, fitting a wide variety of interior design styles.

Looking for something a little larger? The SL-9 has you covered! With a width of 42 inches and a thermal output of 23,500 to 30,000 BTU/hour, this fireplace is equipped for medium to large rooms in your home. All design choices and complementary technology are the same as the SL-7X. The SL-9X is also available, combining the larger size with the enhanced design qualities of the X-Collection models.

Ready to experience the warmth and charm of a fireplace in your new home? Contact Gerstad Builders today to learn more about our fireplace options and start building your dream home.