What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also enhance the beauty and value of the home.
Whether your fireplace needs a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that is used to surround the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It can be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace including the firebox, the raised mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. However, it is important to remember that there are very specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its components should be built, so please consult your local governing body for more details.
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 point to the importance of hearths as the central to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, security, and warmth.
A hearth could cause serious health problems if it is not maintained properly. Smoke exposure raises the levels of nitrogen in blood which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness in high levels.
Hearths used to be constructed from rock however, they are now often made of brick or concrete. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, more decorative features that are only covering the the fireplace opening. The material used in the construction of the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance and cost as well as the resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as a mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the atmosphere of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a useful element since it shields flammable materials from the hearth and disperses heat into the room. It also serves as an area to store things like mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible and others must be in compliance with local and federal fire codes regarding clearance distances from items that are combustible.
The most popular options for surrounds include stone, brick and concrete. Some stone surrounds have decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These features can give an elegant appearance that can complement the style of the house.
Plaster is a different alternative. It is made with a mixture of cement and sand, and it is then finished to match any style of architecture. For example, a plaster surround can complement a Mission-style house.
The most popular option for the fireplace surround is tile. It comes in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as an accent to the surround, or spread over the whole wall for an impressive focal point. It is also a good option for homes that have modern or contemporary style.
The surround is one of the first things guests notice upon entering a space. This is why it is essential to choose an item that sets the tone of your room and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be built and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood but some can also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.
Regardless of what type of fuel you are using the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and needs to be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital parts of the firebox for proper operation.
In addition to maintaining the firebox and its lining in good shape It is essential to clean your fireplace on a regular basis. The interior of your fireplace will be matted by dust and soot due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to clean the soot and ash that has been caked on.
To ensure durability and longevity it's recommended to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't be rusty. They also offer more even heat distribution and last for longer.
You can also make your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Be certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This is not just the tabletop fireplace itself, but also any accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a great way to add warmth and style to your home. They come in various shapes and sizes, making it easy to locate the ideal burner for your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control flames from any place in the house. Fire burners can be used indoors or outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many kinds of burners, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, but they all have a myriad of benefits. Certain are more secure than others, and can be used without or with a chimney. Whatever kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.
While burning wood is the traditional way to enjoy an open flame, it's not always the most practical. In addition to being a messy, inconvenient process it also produces smoke and soot it produces could be harmful for you and your family. Ethanol fires are on the other hand produce just CO2 and water vapor which is a lot more sustainable.
A fireplace can also be helpful in the case of a power outage. In winter, trees become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall and power lines below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm in the event that the electricity goes out in your home. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a tunnel within a chimney which carries gases and smoke out of the house. It is an essential element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue generates a wind that draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting of the flue stops the hot gas produced by the fire from leaking back into your home and instead carrying them out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting prevents carbon monoxide.
Regularly inspect your chimney for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush and an electric drill fitted using a masonry tool as well as masking tape and a utility knife for removing any creosote or soot stuck to the flue's walls. pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also prevents rain or wind gusts from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper, located near 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. It is designed to keep the flue open even when the fire is burning however, it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.