The 10 Most Scariest Things About Fireplace

What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes, providing warmth and comfort throughout the day and at night. They also enhance the beauty and value of the home.

Whether your fireplace needs to be repainted or just minor repairs, these tasks can often be completed by homeowners. However, certain tasks that require gas service must be left to professionals with the proper training.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible flooring of the fireplace or wood stove. It may be a whole elevated area or just the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is often used to describe the whole area of the fireplace including the firebox, raised floor and mantel and the chimney. It is essential to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety regulations regarding the construction of the fireplace and its accessories. You should consult your local governing authority for more information.

Hearths are usually constructed from 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 or even logs. They also offer space for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological studies have revealed that hearths were important to early human life. It is widely believed that they provided light, food, protection and warmth.

A hearth could be a source of serious health issues if it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase blood nitrogen levels which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. It can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.

Traditionally, hearths were built of rock but they are nowadays constructed out of brick or concrete and can come in various sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that completely cover the wall and others are smaller and purely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and enhances the ambience of the room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible substances away from the fireplace and reflects heat from the room. It can also be used as an area to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the type of fireplace, there are various alternatives for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others need to meet local and national fire codes regarding clearance distances from the combustible object.

Popular choices for the surround are brick, stone or concrete. Some stone surrounds have decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. The stone surrounds could include plinths or cornices. These elements can give a home an elegant design that matches the style.

Plaster is a different alternative. It is a mix of sand, cement and water. It can be crafted to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for example, can complement an Mission style home.

The most popular option for a fireplace surround is tile. It comes in a variety 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 modern or contemporary styles.

The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living space. It is important to select an item that will set the tone for your home and also to add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, where a electric fire can be created and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. These traditional structures usually burn wood, however some may also utilize gas like propane or natural gas.

Regardless of what type of fuel you use the firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is comprised of several important components. They include the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.

In addition to maintaining the firebox and its lining in good shape It's also important to clean your fireplace regularly. The interior of the fireplace will be matted by dust and soot due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the soot and ash that has been clogged up.

To ensure durability and longevity, it's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These types of metals can resist corrosion and will not corrosion. They also offer an even heat distribution which will last longer.

In the end, you can add some visual interest to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Make sure the fireplace you choose to use is UL approved. This includes not only the fireplace itself, but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular method to add warmth and beauty to any room. They come in various sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find the perfect burner for your home. Some even come with remotes, so you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors or outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many different types of burners, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, but they all offer a range of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. No matter what kind of burner you select, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all local and state laws.

Burning wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, but it's not always convenient. The smoke and soot produced by burning wood can be hazardous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol fires, on the other hand produce water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more sustainable.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the case of a power outage. In winter, trees be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to fall below. If the power supply in your house goes out, you can use a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a tunnel within the chimney, which is used to transport gases and smoke out of the house. It's also an essential component of a safe and efficient bioethanol fire. A flue creates an updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn, as well as reducing smoke.

The drafting of the flue prevents the hot gases emitted by the fire from leaking back into your home, instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. This regulated venting is what prevents carbon monoxide.

Your chimney must be regularly inspected for blockages and leaks. 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 equipment and chemicals. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits and masking tape are required to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace can help keep the conditioned air inside from escape. This can also stop rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to the wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace, can be shut or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue clear when a fire is burning. However it should be closed whenever the freestanding fireplace is not being used. This will help you save money on your energy bills.