What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are central to many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also provide beauty and value to the property.
Homeowners can tackle many of these projects, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or easy repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to skilled professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It can be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is usually used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, the mantel and floor and the chimney. However, it is important to remember that there are very specific fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please contact your local authority for more information.
They can be made of cement, bricks, or stone. They are a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They also provide a space to store fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as central to early human life. Many believe that hearths were the source of food, light, warmth, and protection.
While a hearth has many benefits, it can also trigger serious health issues in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.
Traditionally, hearths were constructed out of stone, but they are nowadays constructed of brick or concrete and can be in different sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that extend over the whole wall while others are smaller, more decorative features that only cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to make the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance cost, as well as its the resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel", is the frame over the hearth that enhances the atmosphere of the room. It is not just visually pleasing, but also functional since it shields combustibles from the flame and redirects heat back into the space. It can also serve as a shelf to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.
There are various options based on the size and type of the fireplace stove. Some are not combustible and others need to meet the national and local fire codes for clearance distances from combustible objects.
Some of the most popular choices for the surround include concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These features can give an elegant look that complements the style of the home.
Plaster is a different alternative. It can be made from a mix of sand and cement, and decorated to match any style of architecture. For example, a plaster surround can go well with a Mission style house.
Tile is the best option for a surround. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It can be used as an accent to the surround or spread over the whole wall for an eye-catching focal point. It is a fantastic choice for homes in modern style.
The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a living space. It is important to select a piece to set the tone for your space and also to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood but some also burn gas like natural gas or propane.
The firebox is the place where the fire is created and it must be maintained in a way that ensures security and effectiveness. The firebox is made up of a number of important parts. They 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 order and its interior lining. Because it is constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash that need to be removed. To accomplish this, use a wire brush or a scraper to get rid of the caked on soot and ash.
To ensure durability and longevity, it's recommended to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They'll also provide an even heat distribution that will last longer.
You can also make your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Ensure that the fireplace you select is UL approved. This includes the fireplace, as well as any other accessories and decorations you add to it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy way to add warmth and beauty to a space. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire burners are safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners. Each one has its own advantages and drawbacks. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Some are more secure than others ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. Whatever type of burner you choose be sure to follow the instructions in the user's manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with the laws of your state and local authorities.
The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot generated 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 more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall, and even knock down under-hanging power lines. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the electricity goes out in your home. This is a major plus for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is a tunnel within a chimney which carries smoke and gases out of the home. It is also an essential element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates a wind that draws air into the fire. This allows the fuel to burn completely and reduces smoke.
The draft action of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the bioethanol fire from venting into your home. Instead they are taken outside to cool. It is this controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Your chimney must be checked regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush, an electric drill fitted using a masonry drill as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any soot or creosote stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the conditioned air inside from escape. This can also stop wind or rain from entering the fireplace and damaging your gas or wood stove 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 tabletop fireplace's flue clear when the fire is burning. However, it should be closed when the fireplace isn't in use. This can help you save money on your energy bills.