The term fireplace kit can refer to either the logs, grate and fixtures for a gas powered fireplace, or an entire fireplace configuration including the firebox, masonry and whichever accessories may come with the fireplace kit.

Most uses of the term "fireplace kit" refer to modular fireplace kits of the second variety. These handy kits contain everything that you need to install your own fireproof masonry firebox into a recessed area of your existing wall.

It should be noted that there are two man types of fireplace kits. There are both indoor fireplace kits and outdoor fireplace kits. It can only help matters to specify which type you are interested in while performing any net research or comparison shopping.

The typical fireplace kit comes with all the necessary fireplace components that must be used to construct a sound masonry fireplace. The firebox and smoke chamber are the most technical and functionally critical elements of a masonry fireplace.

Most fireplace kits also come with a damper, firebricks for lining the firebox, as well as enough cement dry mix with which to install the various components. These kits generally also include handling dowels. These help you to maneuver the fireplace components into place. Also, complete step by step instructions should come with any fireplace kit that you are considering buying, unless you want the project to be that much more 'fun'.

One of the first things that should be considered when opting for a fireplace made from a fireplace kit is the location in which the fireplace will reside. Whether the fireplace will reside on an outside wall or in the very middle of your home, the most important consideration is that the fireplace has its own foundation support.

Without a solid foundation, the fireplace will surely sink or shift over time. The biggest concern is, however, the safety hazards involved when a fireplace is not supported securely. Obviously, if the thing were to cave in a floor while a fire is burning, this could lead to extensive fire damage as well as structural or floor and ceiling damage to your home.

Another thing to consider is the finish of the fireplace. If the fireplace will be covered with some type of spray on masonry finish, then it is not as important for other structural aspects to be addressed. If you will be using some type of masonry veneer, this is a much more solid approach, but other aspects will have to be considered to make sure that the entire fireplace is supported properly.

Installing a fireplace kit is a pretty straightforward project. As long as you can read and follow instructions, and aren't completely inept with some basic shop tools, you should have no problem getting your fireplace kit up and running.

Experienced masons that have put together fireplace kits before can usually have an entire kit cemented together within an hour. Since much of this time is taken up by the physical labor involved in moving the pieces into place, the project shouldn't take you all that much longer.