How do I update a dated 1980s brass-and-oak fireplace?
In Mills River, updating a 1980s brass-and-oak fireplace usually runs into propane — most of these rural large-lot homes aren't on a natural-gas main. That changes the conversion math, not the cosmetics: the brass door and honey-oak surround paint or swap the same way, but any move to gas here means a properly built LP setup.
Propane changes what happens behind the front
Propane burns hotter per unit than natural gas and needs different orifices and pressures — a unit set up for the wrong fuel soots the glass and logs. On these Mills River Valley and Horse Shoe properties, we convert or spec the appliance for LP, set the regulator, and coordinate the tank side with your propane supplier. The tank stays theirs; the piping and appliance are our licensed lane.
The cosmetic side is the same everywhere
The brass frame paints matte black or gets replaced with a modern door; the honey-oak surround takes paint, a walnut restain, or a full reface in stone or tile with a clean floating shelf for a mantel. None of that touches the firebox.
Permits and outdoor bonus
Gas piping is licensed work — we permit it with Henderson County and meet the inspector. Mills River's open valley also suits outdoor fire features, so if you're already running a line, ask about a fire pit while we're there. We're 25 minutes south; call (828) 545-0525 for a free assessment.
Fireplace help in Mills River
We install and service fireplaces throughout Mills River and the rest of Henderson County — just 25 minutes south from our Asheville-area showroom.
Related questions
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