It's already March, but don’t get complacent - despite the snowdrops, crocuses, and daffodils everywhere, Spring isn’t QUITE ready to make an appearance. How about making sure you have a wonderfully cosy woodburning stove in by next winter? Or even by the next cold snap – which, let’s face it, could be any time through March and even beyond.
Many customers come into the showroom for the first time with the opening line ‘we would LOVE a wood-burning stove, but we simply don’t know where to start. HELP!’ That’s what we do. We help, we guide, and we advise. We have a page dedicated to buying your stove but call into the showroom in person – you’ll learn far more.
There are no daft questions, and yes, it IS possible to have a stove even if you don’t have a chimney. We’ll go through absolutely everything - every single detail - with you to ensure you make the right decision and get a stove you love and that works for you.
A Warm Welcome with a Cosy Stove
When you visit the showroom, there’s no pushy sales talk; we will greet you and let you wander and browse if you prefer. Then, when you’re ready, we’ll discuss what you are hoping for.
What will we ask you?
Do you have an existing chimney and fireplace? Or perhaps a new-build extension with no chimney?
Is there a bricked-up chimney or an inset gas fire? This will inform options such as installation, fireplace designs and hearths as well as your choice of stove plus aspects such as flue liners, beams, surrounds and chambers.
How big is the room? Is it open-plan or a through room? This is how we determine the output required.
Have you decided on a woodburning or multifuel stove? Then we’ll need to consider kiln-dried logs vs seasoned, storing the logs, lighting the stove…
Are you aware of any Smoke Control Zone regulations and restrictions? Have you looked into Building Regulations requirements?
Who's installing your stove? We have our own expert installation team, which delivers a more seamless experience. It goes without saying that they’re totally up to date with all relevant building regulations and HETAS.
Please don’t worry, it’s not an interview. It’s very informal, but the more detail we get at this stage, the better the service we can give and the happier our customers will be. And THAT is our ultimate aim.
Choosing Your Stove
So, once we’ve covered those bases, it’s time to start looking at the stoves and discussing designs and your preferences. Firstly, we’ll ascertain if you’d prefer a traditional or more contemporary style. Then, we’ll discuss the options for an inset or freestanding stove.
Professional advice is essential before installing a wood-burning or multifuel stove, and not only in terms of style and design.
That’s where we come in. With over 40 years in the trade, we KNOW stoves – and we know what will work where. We don’t ever do a hard sell – but we will carry out a comprehensive survey to ensure you get the perfect stove for you. There are over 200 brands of woodburning stoves and literally THOUSANDS of different models.
At Coalwood, we know too many options would be overwhelming, so we offer a good range of stoves from select manufacturers. This means that we know the manufacturer AND their stoves inside-out, so we can happily advise. We know what works best in which space. We can stock the most commonly requested spares for those stoves. And, if ever there was an issue, we know those manufacturers and that they’re as committed to customer service as we are.
What About Installation and Running Costs?
With proper set-up and use, a modern stove can offer reasonable economy. Costs will vary depending on the amount of use, the output required and the energy efficiency of the house itself – is it insulated and double-glazed? Whether you choose a multifuel or woodburning stove will make a difference, too.
Maintenance-wise, log burners and flues will require regular sweeping. Sure, there’s an upfront cost when installing a stove – but oh, what a difference it will make to your home and your comfort.
Who Can Have a Wood-Burning or Multifuel Stove?
Unsurprisingly, there are regulations and guidelines in place to ensure woodburning stoves are installed correctly and used safely and efficiently. There are a few things to consider:
Building Regulations: The installation of a wood-burning stove is usually subject to local authority building regs. Any installation MUST comply with safety standards to protect both occupants and property. If not using a HETAS registered installer – which isn’t advisable anyway - you will need to consult your local building control office before installing a stove, as they will inspect the work and sign off the installation.
HETAS Certification: HETAS (Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme) is a government-approved body that certifies installers and appliances for solid fuel, wood, and biomass technologies. Using a HETAS-certified installer is your guarantee that your stove is installed correctly and meets safety standards.
Smoke Control Areas: Certain areas in the UK are designated Smoke Control Areas, so the use of wood-burning stoves may be restricted, though there are some appliances specifically designed and approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. Again, it's important to check with your local authority.
Eco-design Ready Stoves: The UK government encourages the use of eco-design ready stoves, which are designed to be more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions. These stoves meet higher environmental standards and can be used anywhere in the UK.
Flue Requirements: The flue or chimney associated with the stove must also meet certain standards, crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the stove. There are strict guidelines as to the flue height, diameter, and positioning.
Again, we can happily discuss all these points with you in detail and will ensure we get it right, every time.
Your Stove Experts in Stockport
On top of cosiness and warmth, a multifuel or wood-burning stove brings a distinct ambience and beauty to your home. There's something almost magical, mesmerising even about the crackling sound of a fire, and the sight of the dancing flames can be enthralling.
Whether you're aiming for a countryfied, traditional look or a streamlined, contemporary design, there's a stove here that will perfectly fit your home.
Get in touch today and let us help you come home to a wonderful, warm welcome!
