What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are central to many homes they provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also enhance the beauty and value of the home.
Homeowners can take on many of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace requires an overhaul or just a few easy repairs. Certain jobs that require gas service must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible flooring for an open wood stove or fireplace. It could be a complete elevated area or just the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The word "hearth", which is used to describe all of the fireplace's components, including the firebox, the raised floor, the mantel and the chimney, is often used. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace and its accessories. Please consult your local governing authority for more information.
They can be constructed from stone, bricks or cement. They are a great focal point for any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools wood, tools, and other supplies.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as the central to early human life. Many people believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and security.
Although a hearth offers numerous benefits, it could also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase blood nitrogen levels, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. At high concentrations, it can cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Hearths used to be made of stone however, they are now often made of concrete or brick. They are available in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces fireplace have hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, more decorative features that only cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to build a fireplace can greatly influence its appearance, cost and resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as a mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and adds to the atmosphere of a room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and reflects heat into the space. It also serves as an extra shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.
There are various options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet the fire codes of the local and federal government in regards to clearance distances from combustible items.
Popular choices for the surround are brick, stone or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may also feature cornices or plinths. These elements can give an elegant appearance that can complement the style of the home.
Another option is plaster. This material is made from a mixture of sand, cement and water and can be shaped to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for instance, can complement a Mission style home.
The final option for a fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used to enhance the surround or be extended across the entire wall to create a striking focal point. Tile is an excellent option for homes that have contemporary styles.
The surround is one of the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. It is for this reason that it is essential to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, where a fire may be created and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, however they can also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be maintained in a way that ensures security and efficiency. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all important elements of the firebox that must be in place for proper operation.
It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good condition and the interior lining. The inside of the fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to clean the soot and ash that have been clogged on.
It's also a good idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure long-term durability and longevity. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer an even heat distribution that will last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Be certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL approved for safety. This includes not only the fireplace, but any accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy way to add warmth and aesthetics to any space. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find one that fits your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, which means you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.
There are a variety of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, but all provide a variety of advantages to your home. Some are safer than other, and some work with or without chimneys. No matter what type of burner you choose be sure to adhere to the directions in the user's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all local and state laws.
While burning wood is the most popular method of enjoying the flame of a fireplace, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot created by burning wood can be dangerous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners release water vapor and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, trees can be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, leading them to fall, and power lines to drop below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm in the event that the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a major plus for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is an inside tunnel in a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace to your house. It is an essential element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue generates a wind that pulls air into the fire. This allows the fuel to burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue keeps the hot gases produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, and instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting is what stops carbon monoxide from escaping.
Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits and masking tape are required to get rid of any tarnish or soot that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace helps keep conditioned indoor air from escaping. This can also stop rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to your wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper can be shut and opened using a latch or handle. It is located on the uppermost part of your fireplace close to the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open even when there is a fire burning however it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy costs and keep precipitation and animals out of your fireplace.