What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are central to many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add beauty and value to the property.
If your fireplace requires an overhaul or simple repairs, these projects can often be completed by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring of the fireplace or wood stove. It can be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is often used to describe the entirety of the fireplace including the firebox, the raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations regarding the design of the fireplace and its accessories. Check with your local governing authority for further information.
They can be constructed from cement, bricks, or stone. They are a fantastic focal feature for any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other equipment.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied food, protection, light and warmth.
A hearth can be a source of serious health problems if it's not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). In high doses, it can cause dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness.
Traditionally, hearths were built out of stone, but they are now commonly made of concrete or brick and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that are able to cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the ambiance of a room. It is not just visually pleasing, but also functional as it keeps combustibles away from the fire and deflects heat back into the space. It can also serve as an extra shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet local and national standards for clearance distances from fire-prone objects.
Some popular choices for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give a more refined appearance that is in keeping with the style of the home.
Plaster is another option. It can be made from a mix of cement and sand, and decorated to match any design. A plaster surround, for example can go well with an Mission style house.
The most popular option for an interior fireplace surround is tile. It comes in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround, or spread across the entire wall for an impressive focal feature. Tile is a great option for homes that have modern style.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when entering a living space. It is for this reason that it is crucial to select an item that sets the tone for your space and enhance your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind a fireplace opening where the fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, however they can also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the area where the fire is created and it should be maintained in order to ensure safety and effectiveness. The grate in the hearth along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are all vital elements of the firebox that must be in place for the proper operation.
It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and its liner. Since it's constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be soiled with soot and ash which need to be cleaned out. To clean it, employ a wire brush or scraper to take off the caked-on ash and soot.
It's also a great idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox for longevity and durability. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not get rusty. They also provide more even heat distribution and last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Make sure the fireplace you use is UL approved. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a great method to add warmth and beauty to any space. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes which makes it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some even come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors and outdoors, as they are safe.
There are many types of burners. Each one has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Some are more secure than others ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. No matter what type of burner you select ensure that you adhere to the directions in the product's manual. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance to all local and state laws.
The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always convenient. Apart from the fact that it's messy and inconvenient as well as the smoke and soot it creates can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners are on the other hand produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 which is a lot more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be helpful in the event of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall, and even knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If read more the power in your house goes out it is possible to use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flue
The flue is an inside tunnel in a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace away from your home. It is also an important component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue prevents the hot gas produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, instead, they are carried outside, where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.
The chimney should be inspected regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill 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.
Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. It also prevents rain or wind gusts from entering the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue clear when a fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.