What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Wooden Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add beauty and value to the home.
If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects are often completed by homeowners. However, certain tasks that require gas service should be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that surrounds the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is often used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the floor and mantel and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to note that there are specific ethonal fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its components should be constructed, so contact your local authority for more information.
Hearths are usually made of stone, brick or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers or even logs. They can also be used to store fireplace electric tools, wood, and other supplies.
Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as a key to early human existence. Many people believe that hearths supplied food, light, warmth and even protection.
A hearth could be a source of serious health issues when it isn't maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in blood which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. At high concentrations, it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were originally made of rock, but are now more typically made of concrete or brick. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces shop come with hearths that cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that cover the fireplace's opening. The material used in the construction of the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance, cost, and resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and enhances the ambience of a room. Besides its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible substances away from the hearth and disperses heat into the room. It can also serve as a shelf for household items like mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of fireplace, there are several alternatives for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances from combustible items.
Some of the most popular choices for the surround include concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features like bevels or bolection moulding. They may also feature plinths or cornices. These features can give a house a more sophisticated look that complements its style.
Another option is plaster. It is made with a mixture of cement and sand, and decorated to match any architectural design. For instance, a plaster surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.
The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the wall or extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal. It is a fantastic option for homes that have a contemporary style.
The surround is the first thing people notice when they enter a living space. For this reason, it is important to choose an item that sets the tone of your space and add to the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be built and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood but some can also burn gas like natural gas or propane.
No matter what kind of fuel you are using the firebox is the place the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is made up of a number of important parts. This includes the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and the liner. The interior of your fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust because of its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that have been clogged on.
For longevity and durability, it's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and won't rust. They also offer more even heat distribution and last longer.
In the end you can add some visual flair to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Make sure the fireplace you use is UL approved. This includes the fireplace as along with any accessories or decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a simple way to add warmth and beauty to any space. They are available in a variety of shapes and Fireplace Inserts sizes, so it's easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some come with remotes so that you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, since they are safe.
There are a variety of burners. Each has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages to your home. Some are more secure than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. No matter what type of burner you choose ensure that you adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all local and state regulations.
Wood burning is a classic way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always efficient. The smoke and soot produced from burning wood can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall, and even knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If the power supply in your home goes out and you need to find a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a tunnel inside a chimney which carries gases and smoke out of the home. It is an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn and reducing smoke.
The draft action of the flue stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead they are taken outside to cool. This controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Regularly inspect your chimney for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, should be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush and the use of a drill using a masonry drill as well as masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or sooty residue stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. This also stops wind or rain from entering the fireplace and damaging your 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 is able to be closed or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue clear when there is a fire burning. However it should be shut whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save energy costs.