What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day long and into the night. They also add value and beauty to the interior of your home.
Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or basic repairs, these projects are often completed by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to professionals with the proper training.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible flooring of the fireplace or wood stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth", which is used to describe all the fireplace's components, including the firebox, the raised floor as well as the mantel and chimney, is commonly used. It is nevertheless important to note that there are strict fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please consult your local governing body for more information.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement, and are the focal point of any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fireplace and the flooring. They also protect against accidental fires triggered by stray logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other equipment.
Archaeological research has revealed that hearths played a significant role in early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, security, and warmth.
A hearth can cause serious health issues when it isn't properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases blood nitrogen levels, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness at high levels.
Hearths were originally constructed from rock but they are now commonly made from brick or concrete. They are available in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, more decorative features that only cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to build a fireplace can have a significant impact on its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth which enhances the ambience of the room. It is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional as it keeps combustibles away from the flame and redirects heat back to the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others need to meet national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from the combustible object.
The most popular choices for surrounds are stone, brick or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may also have plinths or cornices. These elements can give a house an elegant look that complements the style.
Plaster is another alternative. It is created by mixing cement and sand, and decorated to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for example can be a perfect match for an Mission style home.
The last popular choice for a fireplace surround is tile. It is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or extended across the entire wall for a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes with modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. This is why it is crucial to select the right piece that will set the tone for your space and enhance your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind the fireplace's opening, where the fire can be constructed and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood but they can also burn gas like propane or natural gas.
Whatever fuel you choose to use the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth as well as a fire poker and an air damper are the most important components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.
It is important to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good shape and its lining. Since it's always exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be covered in soot and ash, which needs to be cleared. To clean it, employ wire brushes or a scraper to remove the caked-on soot and ash.
For durability and long-term longevity, it's a good idea to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These types of metals can resist corrosion and won't rust. They also provide more uniform heat distribution and last for longer.
In the end, you can add some visual interest to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also choose to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you use is UL rated. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a great method to add warmth and style to your home. They are available in many different dimensions and shapes and shapes, making it easy to find one that fits your home. Some even come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. They are also safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but they all provide a variety benefits for your home. Some are safer than others, and fireplacesandstove.com some can be used with or without chimneys. No matter which kind of burner you pick ensure that you follow the directions that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in conformity with all state and local regulations.
The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, but it's not always the most practical. Besides the fact that it's messy and uninspiring as well as the smoke and soot that it releases can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of an outage. In winter, trees may get weighed down by heavy snow and ice, causing them to fall, and power lines to drop below. If the power in your house goes out it is possible to use the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is an important benefit for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a passageway inside the chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the home. It is also an important element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.
The flue's draft prevents the hot gases produced from the fire from escaping into your home. Instead, they are carried out to cool. It is this controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Regularly inspect your chimney for any leaks or blockages. 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. This includes a metal brush, a drill using a masonry drill and masking tape and an utility knife to remove any creosote or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.
Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace to stop the conditioned air from escape. It also stops rain or wind gusts from getting into the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles, and at the top of the fireplace can be shut or opened by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue open when a fire is burning. However, it should be closed when the fireplace isn't being used. This will help you save energy costs.