What Are Fireplace Accessories?
wooden fireplaces are a major feature of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also provide beauty and value to the property.
Homeowners can complete some of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace requires an overhaul or just a few basic repairs. Certain tasks that require gas must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a noncombustible surface that covers the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is usually used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace including the firebox, the raised mantel and floor and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are specific fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so check with your local governing body for more information.
Hearths are typically constructed of brick, stone or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to protect 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 supplies.
Archaeological research has revealed the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth offers numerous benefits, it could cause serious health problems when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase nitrogen levels in blood which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. At high concentrations, it may cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were traditionally constructed out of stone, but they are now commonly made of concrete or brick and can be in different sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that only cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to construct the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance and cost as well as the resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the atmosphere of the room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and deflects heat into the room. It also serves as an area to store household items like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the type of fireplace, there are several materials that can be used for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible, while others must comply with local and federal fire codes in relation to clearance distances from items that are combustible.
The most popular options for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also feature plinths or cornices. These elements can give a home a more sophisticated appearance that is in harmony with its style.
Another option is plaster. This material can be made with a mixture of sand and cement, and finished to match any design. A plaster surround, for example can be a perfect match for an Mission style house.
Tile is the final option for a surround. Tiles come in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create a striking focal point. It is a fantastic option for homes that have modern style.
The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a living space. It is essential to select a piece to set the tone for your space and also to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind a fireplace's opening where a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is usually covered by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. Traditional structures usually burn wood, however some may also utilize gas like propane or natural gas.
The firebox is where the fire is created and it should be maintained in order to ensure safety and effectiveness. The firebox is made up of several essential components. These include the grate as well as the fire poker and the air damper.
In addition to maintaining the firebox and its interior in good condition It is essential to clean out your fireplace regularly. Since it's constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash which need to be cleared. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to remove the soot and ash that has been clogged up.
It's also a great idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure durability and long-term use. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not rust. They'll also provide an even heat distribution which will last longer.
In the end, you can add some visual interest to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Just be sure that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular way to add heat and aesthetics to any space. They come in various shapes and sizes, making it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control flames from any place in the house. Fire burners are safe to use, making them an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners. Each has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all have a variety of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and some can be used with or without chimneys. No matter which kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all state and local regulations.
Wood burning is a classic method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always the most efficient. Besides the fact that it's messy and uninspiring, the smoke and soot that it releases can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more eco-friendly.
A fireplace can also be helpful in the event of an outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If the power supply in your house goes out it is possible to use a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an internal tunnel inside a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace out of your house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and effective fire. A flue creates a wind that pulls air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue keeps the hot gas produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, and instead, they go out to the outside where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for blockages and leaks. 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 brush made of metal and the use of a drill with a masonry bit and masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or soot that is stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to stop the conditioned air from escape. This also prevents rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and damaging the 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. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue open when a fire is burning. However it should be shut when the fireplace is not in use. This will help you save energy costs.