Rumford Fireplaces

We design and build higher efficiency Rumford style and Bellfires brand fireplaces (and of course, the facial wall, liner, and chimney to go with it). Rumford style fireplaces are 30-40% efficient, while a regular box-style fireplace is only 5-10% efficient.


The Newer "BOX" style fireplace is only 0-10% efficient. Most of the heat from the fire goes up the chimney. This is the fireplace style that is most common among U.S. builders, simply because this is the style they learned to use early in our U.S. history and it became the standard. We do not recommend it.	This design was created by Count Rumford in the 1700's, and is the most efficient fireplace and throat design available. Note that the side walls have been angled out to allow more heat transfer into the room. We highly recommend this method for new construction, and to replace old fireboxes where possible.

We'll be happy to provide an estimate to build a Rumford style fireplace in your home.

	At left is a new Rumford style fireplace in the process of being built at a home in Grain Valley, MO. Standard buff color firebrick are used, and the surrounding walls are block, then an exterior wall of brick will be put in place.
	The Skistimas Rumford fireplace, Grain Valley, MO This is the almost finished fireplace around the Rumford firebox in photo #1 above. We used real river stones for the hearth, surround, and mantel that the client hauled up from a nearby stream. The weight of the stone face required additional support under the floor.
	Small Bellfires cast fireplace with stainless steel smoke dome. An authentic 1840's - 1860's Victorian cast iron fireplace face from England is installed in front of the fireplace.
	Sample large Bellfires fireplace in our showroom with tile surround and painted wood mantel.
	Sample Rumford style fireplace built by Gene Padgitt in our showroom. Note angled side walls of firebrick and shallow depth of fireplace. The front was finished with *Centurian Stone* river rock. Note: we are a dealer for Centurian Stone