What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and all night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the interior of your home.
Homeowners can complete most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires an overhaul or just a few simple repairs. Certain jobs requiring gas services must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible floor to the fireplace or wood stove. It could be a complete raised area or simply the foundation on which the fireplace sits. The word "hearth" is used to describe all of the components of the fireplace, such as the firebox, the raised floor as well as the mantel and chimney, is commonly used. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are very specific fire safety guidelines regarding how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please contact your local authority for more information.
Hearths are typically made of stone, brick or cement, and are the focal point of any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring and protect against accidental fires that are caused by stray logs or embers. They also provide a space to store fireplace tools, wood and other supplies.
Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. Many people believe that hearths provided food, light, warmth, and protection.
Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can also cause serious health issues in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation raises the levels of nitrogen in blood which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.
Hearths were once made of stone but they are now often made of brick or concrete. They are available in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that only cover the fireplace's 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 known as mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of a room. It's not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional since it shields combustibles from the fire and deflects heat back into the room. It also serves as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.
There are different options depending on the size and type of the fireplace. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others must meet the national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from the combustible object.
The most popular options for surrounds are brick, stone or concrete. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give an elegant look that complements the style of the house.
Plaster is a different option. It is a mixture of sand, cement and water. It can be shaped to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for instance can go well with a Mission style house.
The last popular choice for a fireplace surround is tile. Tiles come in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to enhance the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes in contemporary styles.
The surround is one of the first things that guests see when they enter a living space. It is essential to select an item that will set the mood for your space and to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be created and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Traditional structures usually use wood, however they can also burn gas, such as natural gas or propane.
Whatever fuel you are using the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are all vital components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good condition and the liner. Since it's always exposed to extreme temperatures, the interior will be matted with soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. You can employ a scraper or wirebrush to clean the soot and ash that have been clogged on.
For longevity and durability it's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't rust. They also have an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Make sure that the fireplace you select is UL certified. This includes the fireplace, as well as any other accessories and decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add heat and aesthetics to any room. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of shapes and sizes that make it easy to find the perfect burner for your home. Some come with remotes, so you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. They are also safe to use, making them an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners, each having 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 some can be used with or without a chimney. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick be sure to follow the directions provided in the user's manual. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all state and local laws.
The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, but it's not always convenient. Apart from the fact that it's a messy, inconvenient process it also produces smoke and soot it produces could be harmful for you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 which is a lot more sustainable.
A fireplace can also be helpful 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 below. If the power supply 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 of the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace away from your home. It's also a crucial element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduces smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue stops the hot gas produced by the fire from billowing read more back into your home, instead carrying them out, where they will cool. It is this regulated venting that stops 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 center of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using specific cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill with a brick bit and masking tape are all needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Keeping the flue closed when you aren't using your fireplace will help prevent the conditioned air inside from escape. This also prevents rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and damaging the wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper can be shut and opened with a latch or handle. It is located on the top of your fireplace near the flue tile or pipe. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open while the fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save money on your energy bills.