In a mountain community where gathering spaces matter, fireplaces and outdoor features play a central role in how we live and connect. Jennifer and Jason Lance understand that these projects are often once-in-a-lifetime decisions for homeowners, and they take pride in making the process approachable and rewarding. With a focus on thoughtful design, modern technology, and personalized service, they help transform everyday spaces into warm, welcoming focal points.

Replacing a fireplace is a unique project that homeowners might only do once in their lifetime. It’s not something that everyone thinks about on a regular basis and so the process can seem daunting. We enjoy guiding homeowners through the project and using our expertise to make it easy for them to execute their vision. It’s really fun to see an older space transformed into something new and fresh.

Today’s appliances are designed for efficiency and aesthetics. There are a lot of fireplaces and outdoor products now that give you design options to help customize the look and have choices for how you control and operate the appliance.

Heat management is a popular feature that allows for TV and artwork to hang above the fireplace with lower clearances. It redirects heat behind the wall to come out above the TV or item you are trying to protect. Also, some fireplaces and outdoor heaters are now coming with app based or home automation-based controls, which makes it easy to operate your appliance from your devices. Finally, electric fireplaces, ones without real flame, are becoming increasingly popular. There are many options on the market now that are realistic looking and have features like crackling noises.

 Homeowners often overlook the need for regular maintenance that can keep their fireplace operating efficiently and looking its best. Regular cleaning of the glass assembly is important to maintain the clearest viewing experience. Also, homeowners often overlook the fireplace requirements and clearances when remodeling around an existing fireplace. Always reference the fireplace manual during a remodel and have the fireplace inspected prior to replacing the finishings. Nothing is sadder to us than going on a service call and finding out the customer has recently remodeled around an old fireplace that no longer has parts available.

We invite our clients to come into our showroom to look at examples so we can discuss the possibilities and determine what sort of features are important to them. We follow up with a site visit so we can measure the space and determine the scope of the project. Then we research the best product to offer that matches both the client’s needs and wants and what the space or scope will allow for.

The fireplace is typically the heart of the home and focal point of the living space. It’s where your family gathers and spends intimate moments together. Many homeowners think that updating the finishings around their fireplace is all they need to do to update the space. However, the biggest impact would come from replacing and updating the fireplace as well. Fireplaces are appliances and they have a lifespan. At a certain point, the manufacturer stops backing the product and no longer makes parts, typically 15-20 years. Fireplaces have a lot cleaner look today than they did 20 years ago. So, you can get a lot more viewing area and heat output (or even no heat if that’s what’s desired) with a new appliance.

Manufacturers recommend servicing on an annual basis. If you have a rental or commercial property where the fireplace may be used every day, then you should consider twice a year.  Also, for some new installations, manufacturers look for documented maintenance to honor some warranties. Burning gas creates corrosive byproducts that can build up on the glass and components. Those residues should be cleaned off or they can impact operation and, especially with glass fronts, can get baked in and become impossible to remove. Also, the heating and cooling of the appliance wears on the metals and, over time, can impact the integrity of the firebox. Finally, vibration in the system (i.e. from blower fans), can loosen and dislodge components and fittings. Periodic maintenance helps prevent and solve these types of issues.

Communication and integrity are key. Being responsive to our customers’ calls and messages, and following through on what we say we are going to do, helps to build confidence with our customers that they can rely on our services. Sometimes in our industry, excellent customer service also means informing the customer of bad news, like safety concerns.

Portable gas fire pits with built in safety shutoff features are popular for the summer due to the high likelihood of level 2 fire bans. The fire pits are allowed during certain stages of fire ban, so you can still have that campfire experience while being compliant with the restrictions. Also, outdoor heaters, specifically electric infrared heaters, are really popular at the moment. There are some new heaters and fire pits that have ambient LED lighting incorporated into them, which creates a unique outdoor vibe.

Sometimes it’s hard to turn work mode off and we find ourselves talking about work and fireplaces at all hours of the day. When we do get to go on vacation, we find ourselves nerding out over the local chimneys we see. We were in Scotland earlier this year and couldn’t stop taking pictures and videos of the old clay chimney pots on top of all the old buildings.

As a family, we like to go rock hounding locally and in Utah. We also like to raft and kayak, and Jason loves to ski with his son, Kyler.