Double-sided fireplace: advantages, maintenance and what to know before installing one
Double-sided fireplaces are spectacular, but they have twice as much glass, more seals and more complex maintenance. Everything you need to know.
A double-sided fireplace is visually striking, but it has twice as much glass, more seals and more complex access for cleaning. Annual maintenance is still necessary, just as with any other installation.
A double-sided fireplace has glass on two opposite sides, so the fire is visible from two rooms. They are highly valued in interior design projects, but have their own characteristics that are worth understanding before installation.
How does it work?
It may be an open fireplace or — more commonly — a closed cassette with glass on two sides. The combustion chamber has two glass panels on opposite sides. The flue rises vertically from the top, just like any other installation.
Advantages
- Exceptional aesthetics: seeing the fire from two spaces creates a unique visual effect
- Space division: it can act as a divider between two rooms while maintaining a visual connection
- Heating two spaces: if the two sides face different rooms, heat reaches both
Drawbacks to bear in mind
- More difficult installation: it requires careful planning of the flue and its position in the wall
- Higher cost: both for installation and maintenance
- More delicate draught: in open-fireplace models it can be more difficult to achieve
- Specific maintenance: access to the inside for cleaning may be more complex
Bear in mind: a double-sided fireplace makes sense if the design of the space calls for it. For pure heating efficiency, a conventional insert will give better results for less money.
Specific maintenance
- Both glass panels: both need to be checked. The one on the less-used side is usually dirtier
- Double seals: there are more seals to check. A damaged seal affects the whole chamber
- Access: it may require removing a component. The installer should provide suitable access
- Frequency: once a year, like any other fireplace
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Does it cost more to clean a double-sided fireplace?
Generally, yes, because there are more elements to inspect and access may be more complex. The exact price depends on the model and installation.
Can it be installed in any wall?
No. Before deciding, the weight, vertical flue and access from both sides must be assessed with an installer.
How often should it be cleaned?
At least once a year, just like any other fireplace. If use is intensive, a mid-season inspection may be advisable.
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