The Joys of Buying an Older HomeThe Joys of Buying an Older Home


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The Joys of Buying an Older Home

My dream home was not new construction in a planned community. It was a rambling old structure in a neighborhood that was beginning to recover after years of decline. I got the place for a song and started in on all the tasks associated with restoring it to new glory. I soon found there was a lot to do. While the house was sound, it needed to be fumigated after several years of standing vacant. All the tile needed replacing, and the floors cried out for refinishing. Little by little, I got the place ready for me to move in. Today, I like to think it is the nicest home on the block. If you are thinking of buying a fixer-upper, try my tips. From redoing the wallpaper to choosing the right pest control service, what I learned will save you a lot of time and trouble.

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Key Pieces Of Information To Keep In Mind When Buying An Outdoor Fireplace

Are you considering installing an outdoor fireplace on your property? If so, the following points will help you understand some key factors to keep in mind about your planned purchase. 

Legalities

Depending on where you live, there may be some legal requirements that you have to address before you can install an outdoor fireplace. These legalities can vary between areas in the same city. For example, there might be ordinances that forbid outdoor fireplaces and fire pits within the city limits, but these additions might be allowed on the outskirts of a city or in rural areas. Some cities may not have laws that forbid these structures, but they might require property owners to file paperwork for a permit. An outdoor fireplace contractor is a good resource to use to determine the laws in your area and how to file for a permit if needed. 

Fuel Source

You will need to decide whether you want a wood-burning or gas-powered fireplace. Woodburning fireplaces may not be ideal for certain weather conditions. For example, the flames and smoke produced may not be a good combination with windy conditions. Gas burning fireplaces give the visual effect, but there are less concerns about windy conditions and smoke and fire. If you truly desire a wood-burning outdoor fireplace for personal reasons, such as the nostalgic smell of wood burning, then you can elect to use caution when choosing days to use the fireplace. For example, you could refrain from using it on windy days. 

Installation Space

You will need adequate space for the installation of the fireplace. Perhaps you are thinking that you want a small fireplace, and you may assume that it will not take up much space. However, there are likely building codes that the fireplace must meet. For example, even though the unit will be small, there might be space considerations such as erecting it and leaving a certain distance of space between it and other structures. 

Planned Use

You may have several different things you plan to do with your new fireplace. For example, it might be a location that you and your family spend quiet time at. You may also have plans to entertain guests. The main activities you plan to do can help you decide the type of fireplace to invest in. For example, if you plan to have mostly lavish entertainment, a gas fireplace may be better because people may not appreciate getting smoky smells in their expensive clothes. It would also ensure that you do not have the worries of  last minute changes in plans due to unexpected windy weather. If your plans are mainly for family and less formal entertainment, a wood burning fireplace would allow you to do things such as roast hotdogs, make s'mores, or camp out in the yard.