Fireplaces Disappearing in Today's New Homes

Fireplaces can be practical, as a backup source for heating when there's no electricity or gas.

Fireplaces can be romantic, as a cozy gathering place on a wintery evening.

But for close to the majority of new homeowners, fireplaces aren't even in the picture.

According to the Census Bureau, the number of new homes built without a fireplace reached 49% in 2009, the highest percentage since 1975. 

New Homes with Fireplace | NC Custom Home Builders | Building a New Home  

In 1990, 66% of new homes included a fireplace. After that, the trend began to shift away from fireplaces.  The graph shows the trend since 1995.

New Homes with Fireplace | NC Custom Home Builders | Building a New Home

 What could be causing the decline in the number of fireplaces?

- Cost:  a typical fireplace can add in the range of $1500-$3000 to the price of a new home.

- Governmental Restrictions: Some counties restrict fireplaces. Others prohibit wood burning fireplaces, eliminating the possibility of a backup heating source independent of utilities.

- Social media and entertainment emphasis: changing lifestyles

People who choose to have a fireplace in today's new homes usually choose to emphasize it as a focal point.  They really want the warmth it can bring into a home, and they are careful to choose a community where fireplaces are allowed - and wood logs or gas fuels are easy to come by.

Stanton Homes will walk you through the options, when you're ready to choose whether you'd like a fireplace, or prefer a home where other amenities are emphasized.

 

Read more about Raleigh New Home Fireplace Styles and Trends:

Fireplace Custom Designs - Choosing a Fireplace

Fireplace Trends - See how Many Homebuyers are Including a Fireplace in their New Home

Which is Better, a Woodburning or Gas Fireplace?

Types of Fireplace Mantles and Surrounds

What is the Best Type of Tile for a Fireplace?

 

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Call 919-278-8070 or visit www.StantonHomes.com to find out more about new homes in the Raleigh area today. 

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Articles copyright Stanton Homes 2006-2012.  Unauthorized use is not permitted.  Provided for informational purposes only, no claims are made by Stanton Homes regarding the validity of any statements.  Please note:  all listing information per MLS, and current as of posting date.  Information subject to change.  Stanton Homes does not make claims to ownership of  any lot listings, but can work with homebuyers to purchase available lots and build.  Home plans to be approved on an individual basis, subject to neighborhood restrictive covenants and lot restrictions.  Ask for further information regarding any community, lot or floor plan.  Photos represent typical homes and details of each neighborhood, to help highlight different options available in the Raleigh/Triangle area.  No claim of ownership is made to homes or land pictured.  

 
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4 Comments on New Homes with Fireplaces Hits 23 Year Low

FEB
23
2011
561,252 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Penny,

We are seeing this in CA. Your commentary on the reasons for decline are very applicable here as well.

Steve
11:33am • #1
FEB
25
2011

Good info Penny. It seems this is a cyclical event & may reverse soon. Thanks for the info.
10:08pm • #2
MAR
02
2011
422,047 Points 7 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

I'm shocked!  Could it be the cost of the unit plus installation?
7:08pm • #3
MAR
04
2011
474,379 Points 15 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Steve - It does seem to make more sense to include a fireplace in a cold climate than a warm one.

Bill - definitely can see some patterns in the numbers of fireplaces being included by year.

Kenneth - We include a fireplace in every home, unless the buyer decides to eliminate it.   On the other hand, if you're never going to use a fireplace, does it make sense to pay for one?  Just one more thing to think about when buying a home!
1:57pm • #4

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