What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that offer warmth and comfort all day and night long. They also provide beauty and value to the house.
Whether your fireplace needs a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects are often completed by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring of a fireplace or wood stove. It can be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is used to describe all of the components of a fireplace, including the firebox, the raised floor, the mantel and the chimney, is commonly used. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety rules regarding the design of the fireplace and its accessories. Please consult your local governing authority for more information.
Hearths are typically constructed of brick, stone or cement. They can be an important focal point in any room. They are designed to guard 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 items.
Archaeological studies have revealed that hearths were important to the early human era. It is widely believed that they provided light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can also trigger serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation can increase blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. In high doses it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were traditionally constructed out of rock, however they are nowadays constructed of brick or concrete and can be in various sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces wood have hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, more decorative features that only cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to construct the hearth can have a huge impact on its appearance, cost, and resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel" is the frame that sits above the hearth that enhances the atmosphere of an area. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and deflects heat away from the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are a variety of material options for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances away from items that are combustible.
Some of the most popular choices for the surround include concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. These stone surrounds can include plinths or cornices. These details can give a home a more refined appearance that is in harmony with the style.
Plaster is another alternative. It is an amalgamation of sand cement and water and can be shaped to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for instance can go well with the look of a Mission style home.
Tile is the final option for a surround. It comes in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great option for homes that have contemporary styles.
The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living space. This is why it is crucial to select a piece that will set the tone for your space and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be created and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney that allows the smoke to escape. These traditional structures typically burn wood, but they can also burn gas like natural gas or propane.
The firebox is where the combustion takes place and should be maintained in order to ensure safety and efficiency. The firebox consists of several important components. These include the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes keeping the firebox in good condition and the lining. Because it is constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be covered in soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to get rid of the ash and soot that has been caked on.
To ensure durability and longevity it's a good idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't rust. They will also provide a more even heat distribution and last for longer.
In the end you can add a bit of visual flair to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Ensure that the fireplace you select is UL certified. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular method to add heat and aesthetics to any room. They are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes which makes it easy to find one that will fit your home. Some are even equipped with remotes so that you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners are safe to use, making them a great option for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but they all provide a variety advantages for your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and can be used without or with a chimney. No matter what kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in conformity with all local and state regulations.
The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always practical. Besides the fact that it's a messy, inconvenient process as well as the smoke and soot it creates could be harmful for you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more eco-friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, trees become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, causing them to fall, and power lines to drop below. If the power in your home goes out, you can use a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is an important benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an internal tunnel of the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace to your home. It's also a crucial element of a safe and effective fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reducing smoke.
The flue's draft stops the hot gases that are produced from the fire from escaping into your home. Instead they are taken out to cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for any leaks or blockages. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using specific cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill with brick bits and masking tape are all needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
The flue should be kept closed when you're not using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops winds or rain from entering the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper can be closed and opened with a latch or handle. It is located on the top of your fireplace, near the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open even when a fire is burning, but it should be closed when not in use to help lower your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.