A drafty wood burning fireplace can be converted into instant warmth and enjoyment.

Ruby series gas inserts make relaxing simple. Convert your high-maintenance wood fireplace into a source of warmth and enjoyment. Realistic split logs and flames give the Ruby series the ambiance and look you expect, while removing the effort wood fireplaces require.

Right now get a free chimney liner when you purchase a gas or wood insert, a savings of up to $600. For more information visit The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Fireplaces are useful features in a home. Fireplaces are sources of ambient heat and also add style to indoor spaces.

Fireplaces can complement just about any interior style. Fireplaces can be traditional and burn wood or connect to a home’s natural gas supply for on-demand ambiance. What’s more, fireplaces may come in vented or ventless varieties, depending on homeowners’ preferences and what is allowed by community building codes. That means a chimney or flue may not be needed — expanding the list of rooms where a fireplace can be installed.

Certain trends have emerged among fireplace fans in recent years. Here’s a look at what’s getting consumers fired up about these home decor elements.

• Minimalist style: Many fireplaces are designed in neutral colors with minimal trim that directs focus on the fire and not the appliance. When the fireplace is not in use, it blends in with surroundings and will not compete for attention with other design elements.
• Convertible fireplaces: Homeowners can choose between open or sealed fireplaces. A convertible fireplace enables homeowners to have the best features of these options. A convertible fireplace can be converted to wood from gas, or the opposite, in as little as 30 minutes.
• Nature-inspired materials: Natural stone continues to be a material of choice in fireplace surrounds. Light colors work well for a fireplace, and also fit with today’s lighter color interior design preferences. Natural stone also works perfectly with both contemporary and rustic decor.
• Vintage fireplaces: Vintage continues to be a buzzword in 2022, and the choice to go vintage also applies to fireplace styles. A room decorated in vintage elements can be complemented with a vintage fireplace or one designed to look vintage.
• Integrate into wall decor: Fireplaces that are built right into a wall save space. One can have a television and a fireplace on the same wall. These types of fireplaces work well in modern home designs. Other fireplaces may be built into bookshelves or other wall features.

Fireplaces can improve the appeal of a home. Various trends are popular this year, making fireplaces highly coveted features.

For more information about fireplace inserts, contact The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Source: crescent-news.com

Fireplaces can be great design elements and can make any space in your home feel more cozy and luxurious. Below are several reasons why a fireplace may be the perfect addition to your home. They can save you money on energy bills, become statement pieces in a space, and increase your home's value.

The most popular place to install a fireplace is in the living room or the family room. But, one could be added to any room to create a warm and inviting atmosphere; added to the bedroom, dining room, or even the bathroom. If you're thinking about adding a fireplace to a room in your house, there are a number of styles you could choose. Here are 25 ways you could style a fireplace to suit any room of your home.

1. Surrounding shelves

Adding built-in shelves around a fireplace can give you more opportunities to add decorative elements to a space. This design is typically used in living rooms and bedrooms.

2. Embrace cozy elements

To emphasize the cozy atmosphere in a space, design the fireplace around wooden elements and cozy materials, like a plush couch.

3. Add storage benches

Storage benches could be placed around a fireplace in the living room, mudroom, or entryway. This is a great way to make a room more functional.

4. Build with brick

Adding brick around a fireplace will create a statement in any space. Brick can make a home feel more earthy and warm.

5. Place in the center

Placing a fireplace in the center of an open concept can help divide multiple spaces. This style also allows multiple rooms to utilize the fireplace. In this design, the entryway, living room, and dining room all benefit from this statement piece.

6. Embrace empty space

Allowing for empty space around a fireplace will make it stand out. This fireplace is styled with minimal furniture pieces.

7. Position facing the bed

In the bedroom, placing a fireplace at the foot of the bed will give the room a focal point and create an extra cozy atmosphere.

8. Fill an empty wall

The fireplace could be placed next to the bed, to fill the space on an empty wall. It could also be used to separate a wall that has been painted two different colors, as in the above room.

9. Use to warm the tub

In the bathroom, a fireplace could be placed next to the bathtub to provide warmth and light. This will give your bathroom an extra luxurious feel.

10. Install near the shower

Similarly, a fireplace could be placed next to the shower. This space has a very cohesive and modern, black and white design.

11. Include in an open concept

In an open concept home, a fireplace in the living room can also be seen from other areas, such as the kitchen or the dining room. This provides warmth and light to the whole house.

12. Place in the corner

A fireplace could be added to the corner of any room, to fill the empty space and add an interesting design choice.

13. Surround in stone

Surrounding a fireplace in stone will make it appear more rustic and earthy. This piece is encompassed in beautiful stone that reaches to the ceiling.

14. Paint a dark color

Painting a fireplace a dark color in a moody room will give your space a chic and luxurious feel.

15. Embrace symmetry

Symmetry can make a fireplace look cohesive in a space. This room has two identical mirrors and sconces bordering the statement piece.

16. Encompass with rustic elements

To emphasize the rustic elements of a fireplace, surround in dark brick and style with wooden logs. This could be added to any space in a cabin.

17. Surround with windows

If you live in a beautiful place, allow your view to speak for itself. Place a fireplace before large windows to give it the perfect backdrop.

18. Create contrast

Create contrast by painting the fireplace a light color and the wall a dark shade, or vice versa. This will draw attention to your fireplace.

19. Make it extra modern

Keep the space modern by surrounding the fireplace in subtle tiles and placing a television over it.

20. Surround in chairs

To make a fireplace more inviting in the living room or entryway, place chairs on either side of it. This style encourages your guests to come and sit next to the warm fire.

21. Make the focal point

To make your fireplace the focal point of any space, surround it in a unique element, like brick, stone, or tile.

22. Add next to tub stairs

A fireplace could be added next to the tub, especially if your bathtub is sunk into a tiled surround.

23. Paint with a bold color

Painting the wall in any room a bold color will make the fireplace really stand out. This dining room's wall color emphasizes the design of the fireplace.

24. Use to connect rooms

A fireplace could be placed between two rooms, to connect them. For instance, this home has one between the dining room and the living room.

25. Make a space more comfortable

A fireplace could be used to make a space feel more comfortable. Whether it be incorporated into a living room, dining room, bedroom, or bathroom, a fireplace will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

For more information, visit us at The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Source: housedigest.com

A new EPA certified gas fireplace insert is an easy, convenient way to heat your home and to make a traditional open fireplace more attractive. Gas fireplace inserts are insulated with a large glass window for viewing the natural looking fire. The insert itself prevents the heat from going up the chimney and forces it into your home instead. Many have a blower that helps to force the heat into your living space. Fireplace inserts, both wood and gas, are placed directly into your existing open fireplace, making your hearth more attractive and more efficient.

With energy prices skyrocketing, energy efficiency is one of the biggest benefits of adding a gas insert to your home. They can also be thermostat controlled for even heating.

Right now, at West Sport in Sudbury, get a free chimney liner when you purchase a gas or wood insert, a savings of up to $600.

For more information, visit us at The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

If you know anyone with a backyard pizza oven, you know both the magic and the unique culinary experience they deliver. You can deliver this experience for family and friends as well by adding a Backyard Pizza Oven to your outdoor space.

Ready to cook in 20 minutes

The Hearthstone Pizza Oven is quick and easy to use. The stainless steel baffle and a thick layer of ceramic fiber insulation retain the heat in the oven. Simply start the fire and you’ll be cooking in about 20 minutes.

Convenient features and accessories

The patio oven floor is made from multiple layers of fire bricks, essential for crispy pizza crust. The cooking shelf in front of the oven gives you space to organize and check the progress of your meal. A thermometer is built into the front of every oven. And an assortment of accessories is available to expand the capabilities of your pizza oven.

Materials and construction

Our ovens are built to last for years. Using stainless steel and a durable powder coat finish, our ovens are constructed to withstand the heat from inside and the weather outside.

For more information on Hearthstone Pizza Oven, visit us at The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

With a stylish, distinct look and carefully sculpted curves, the Broil King line of gas grills will complement any outdoor environment. You can sear steaks to perfection, rotisserie cook poultry or roasts, and even bake elaborate desserts. Every part of the cooking system is designed and engineered for a specific purpose. When combined, the results are simply spectacular.

Broil King offers both power and performance in a variety of sizes to suit all types of grillers. At the heart of these grills is the legendary Broil King®cooking system: heavy-duty 8mm stainless steel cooking grids, stainless steel Flav-R-Wave™technology, and powerful stainless steel Dual-Tube™ burners. Easy to maintain, with urban styling and a performance package that rivals any other grill.

The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury is your new, local Broil King dealer. Join us on tax free weekend and get $100 off plus free assembly and delivery on all Broil King grills!

Porches, decks, patios and outdoor kitchens — the backyard is where the party’s happening for homeowners in and around Sudbury, MA. In fact, the trend toward reimagining backyard spaces has gotten so strong that there’s a term for it: Backyarding.

The winter is traditionally fireplace season, but in the last few years homeowners have been increasingly adding fireplaces and firepits outdoors.

If you’re looking for a small, movable fire pit, look for a steel bowl-shaped one that is raised off the ground. These are typically wood-burning fire pits and often come with a screen cover to prevent embers from burning your guests. These are the closest to a backyard campfire you can get.

A fire bowl is similar to a firepit, but it is often connected to an external fuel source like a propane tank. These are usually small and designed to be portable, while offering convenience and minimal cleanup.

A fire pit table is a non-portable fire bowl built into or around a table. It has a dedicated gas line or a propane tank hidden inside and is not designed to be moved.

Want to see the difference? Visit us at The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Most purchases under $2,500 apply.

The Massachusetts Legislature set this year’s sales tax holiday weekend for Aug. 13 and 14.

On these two days, Massachusetts shoppers do not have to pay the state’s 6.25% sales tax on most goods less than $2,500.

When it comes to purchasing a new grill, grill and hearth supplies, or fireplace insert, smart shoppers know to take advantage of their state’s sales tax free weekend. In just a few weeks, Massachusetts will have this tax free weekend or sales tax holiday.

The idea behind most of these sales tax holidays is to give families a break on state taxes. That’s why participating states have rules on which categories qualify for tax free shopping.

Is there a limit on the tax free weekend

While you are not limited to how many stores you shop tax free, there are spending limits on what you buy. In other words the sales tax holidays have a cap on what qualifies as tax free. The cap in MA is $2,500.

Anyone shopping on a tax free weekend can reap the rewards of a sales tax holiday. Just keep your spending within the rules and the approved categories!

What is excluded?

Purchases of cars, motorboats, food, alcohol, tobacco products, marijuana products, telecommunications services such as prepaid calls, natural gas, steam, and electricity are excluded from the sales tax holiday.

Join us on tax free weekend, visit The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Fireplaces are a beautiful addition to any home. Gas fireplaces, in particular, offer a number of benefits that can make them a great choice for your home.

They’re Typically More Efficient

Gas fireplaces are typically more efficient than other types of styles, due to their unique design. They use a pilot light to start the burn, which significantly reduces the amount of energy needed to heat up the room. Additionally, gas fireplaces typically use less wood than other types of fires, which means they’re also more environmentally friendly.

Gas Fireplaces are Versatile

Gas fireplaces offer a versatile alternative to traditional electrical fires. They’re easy to use and can be placed virtually anywhere in your home. You can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a gas fireplace even when the weather outside is cold or inclement.

They can be used in a variety of settings – in the living room, in the bedroom, or even in the kitchen. They’re also perfect for smaller spaces.

They Have Many Customization Options

Gas fireplaces come with a wide range of customization options, allowing you to create the perfect atmosphere for your home. You can choose from different styles and sizes, and you can choose from different types of wood. Plus, there are many other customization options available, including lighting options and sound effects.

They Are More Affordable Than Other Styles

Gas fireplaces offer a more affordable option than other types of fireplaces. They are also easier to maintain and operate, which can be a big advantage if you’re on a budget. This type of fireplace is typically cheaper because it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.

They Are Safer Than Other Types of Fireplaces

There is no question that gas fireplaces are a safer option than other types of fireplaces. One of the main reasons for this is that gas fires do not produce embers.

Gas Fireplaces Are Easier To Operate

Gas fireplaces are often thought of as more difficult to operate than wood-burning ones, but this is not always the case. In fact, many gas models are easier to use than their wood counterparts.

One reason for this is that they typically have fewer moving parts. This means that they are less likely to malfunction or require maintenance. Furthermore, most gas models come with automatic ignition systems that make starting them a breeze.

In addition, many gas fireplaces come with built-in safety features such as automatic shutoff mechanisms and flame sensors that help prevent accidents. So whether you’re looking for an easy way to heat up your home or want a fireplace that is easy to operate, a gas model should be your top choice.

Gas Fireplaces Are More Durable

Gas fireplaces are often seen as more durable than their traditional counterparts. This is because gas fires use a pilot light to ignite the gas supply, which means that the fire cannot spread.

They Can Be Manufactured And Used In An Eco-Friendly Way

A gas fireplace uses less fuel to produce the same amount of heat, which means that it is good for the environment. Additionally, some models have features that allow them to be operated using renewable energy sources, such as solar power.

For more information, visit us at The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury.

Source: sflcn.com

When it comes to summer grilling, most cooks reach for the old standards: hamburgers, hot dogs, corn, steak, and chicken. Let’s face it: Tradition gets old.

Here are some basic ideas for taking your grilling game to the next level using inspired ingredients like avocado, cabbage, cauliflower, polenta, and nuts.

Avocado

Avocados are rich, silky, and wildly popular at the moment, and there’s no shortage of reasons why they’re everywhere right now. And while the fruit is perfect sliced and piled high on top of toasts or salads, a little love over live fire will take its flavors to the next level.

Try halving your avocado, brushing the cut sides with a little mayonnaise or oil, along with a sprinkling of seasoning, then grilling those halves over a hot rack for a minute or two. Heat the avocado just until the cut halves warm slightly and have nice grill marks, then remove. Stuff the halves with cold salad, or slice and use in appetizers or over toast. The slight smokiness the grill imparts adds wonderful, layered flavor, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Lettuces and Cabbages

Planning a summer salad? Consider grilling thick wedges or halves of romaine and endive or radicchio heads for added flavor and drama. Brush the cut edges with a little vinaigrette or dressing, then place over a hot grill just to lightly toast the cut edges. The quick grilling adds great savory notes to the dish.

If cooking over coals, try “caveman grilling.” Lightly oil and season a whole head of cabbage before wrapping it tightly in foil, then tuck into hot coals, tossing every few minutes until evenly charred on all sides. Remove the foil, and cut into wedges, then serve alongside romesco, ranch, or another flavorful sauce.

Figs

Fruit, in particular, shines on the grill, as the heat toasts the natural sugars, giving the fruit deep caramel notes. Brush cut halves of fresh figs, and toast quickly on the grill, just until you see grill marks, then remove and toss with a salad, or add to a charcuterie platter.

Oysters

A covered grill can work just like an oven. Set the heat, add your ingredients, and wait for the grill to work its magic. Oysters are a perfect example. Whether you’re adding chopped garlic, herbs, and sprinkled cheeses or going old school with oysters Rockefeller or Bienville, carefully place the topped half shells on the grill rack (or use a grill pan, and settle the oysters in a bed of rock salt), and grill until toasty on top and the aroma is almost too much to bear.

Cauliflower

Like fruit, vegetables love the grill. For simple cauliflower “steaks,” cut the veggie into thick slices — about an inch or so — lightly oil and season, then grill on both sides until you have good grill marks and the slices are tender enough to slice easily.

Alternatively, lightly oil and season the whole head before wrapping with foil and grilling “caveman style,” tucked in coals and tossed until tender and charred on all sides; or cut the head into florets and toss with oil and seasoning, or a vinaigrette and grill in a foil pouch until tender.

Polenta

For a zippy take on polenta, cook the cornmeal ahead of time to a thick porridge, then spread it out into an even layer in a greased baking dish. Once the polenta is chilled and hardened, cut into slices, lightly oil, and place over a hot grill rack, cooking just long enough to warm and get good grill marks.

The grilled polenta makes a great base for an appetizer and also works well served alongside salads and main dishes. It even works well as a dessert, topped with ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce or macerated fresh berries.

Potatoes

When you’re using a grill, potatoes can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the best is to pierce whole baking potatoes several times and microwave until tender, then cut into thick slices, and brush with a mayonnaise flavored with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and chives. Grill the slices until toasted and fragrant. (The mayonnaise actually helps to keep the potatoes from sticking to the grill racks.)

Alternatively, wrap whole greased and seasoned potatoes in foil, and tuck into hot coals until charred on all sides, or simply grill whole new potatoes, lightly oiled and seasoned, over gentle heat on a rack until tender and lightly browned. For a show stopping side, thread thinly sliced greased and seasoned potatoes onto skewers, and grill until fragrant and toasted.

Pound Cake

Like fresh fruit, pound cake (and other dense cakes, such as angel food) has a ton of sugar and is magic on the grill. Place slices on a greased grill rack, and cook just until lightly toasted on each side, then top with your favorite ice cream or whipped cream, along with fresh summer fruit. Simple as this may be, it’s always a favorite with company and is always entertaining.

Pineapple

Brush thick slices with a little oil, flavored with a touch of rum, and grill just until the sugars in the fruit begin to caramelize. Use as a dessert component, or incorporate into a refreshing summer mai tai or summer cocktail.

Melon

Cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon may be the last things you’d consider throwing on the grill, but they are absolutely delicious. Find slightly underripe fruit (because they hold their shape best over the high heat), then grill quickly over a greased hot rack until softened and they’ve developed nice grill marks.

As the outer surface cooks, the caramelized sugars give the fruit an incredible depth of flavor. Use them in salads, as cocktail components, or served topped with yogurt or ice cream and a drizzle of honey and berries for a refreshing and colorful dessert.

Source: shondaland.com