What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide beauty and value to the home.
If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some simple repairs, these projects are often completed by homeowners. Certain tasks that require gas must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a noncombustible surface that is used to surround the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or simply the foundation on which the fireplace sits. The term "hearth" is commonly used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the design of the fireplace and its accessories. Please consult your local governing authority for more details.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement, and are a focal point of any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fireplace and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires triggered by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other items.
Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as the central to early human existence. It is widely believed that they provided food, protection, light and warmth.
A hearth can cause serious health problems if it's not maintained properly. Smoke exposure increases blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness in high levels.
Traditionally, hearths were constructed of rock but they are now commonly made out of brick or concrete and can come in different shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that cover the entire wall, while others are smaller and purely decorative elements that cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used to build a fireplace can significantly affect its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth which enhances the ambiance of an area. It is not just visually pleasing, but also functional as it keeps combustibles away from the fire and deflects heat back into the room. It can also serve as a shelf to display household items like mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of fireplace, there are various material options for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet the fire codes of the local and federal government regarding clearance distances away from items that are combustible.
The most popular choices for surrounds are brick, stone, or concrete. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. They may also feature plinths or cornices. These elements can give an elegant look that is in keeping with the style of the home.
Plaster is another option. This material can be made with a mixture of cement and sand, and finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for instance, can complement an Mission style house.
The most popular option for the fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used to enhance the wall or be extended over the entire wall to create a striking focal point. It is also a good option for homes with modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when entering a living space. This is why it is important to choose an item that sets the tone of your room and increase the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be built and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a type of chimney that allows the smoke to escape through. Traditional structures usually burn wood, but Fireplaces & Stoves UK some may also utilize gas, such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the area where the combustion takes place and should be maintained in order to ensure security and efficiency. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital parts of the firebox for the proper operation.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good order and the interior lining. Because it is constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be covered in soot and ash which need to be cleaned out. To clean it, use a wire brush or scraper to take off the caked-on ash and soot.
It's also a great idea to utilize steel slag or steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure longevity and durability. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't rust. They'll also provide an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you use is UL rated. This is not just 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 style to any space. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes that make it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some come with remotes, so you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.
There are many different types of burners, each with their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, but they all offer a range of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and a few can be used with or without chimneys. No matter which type of burners you choose be sure to follow the guidelines that are in the manual. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all local and state laws.
The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, but it's not always the most convenient. The smoke and soot generated by burning wood could be hazardous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more sustainable.
A fireplace can also prove useful 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 to drop below. If the electricity in your home 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 an inside tunnel in the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace away from your home. It is also an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue generates a wind which draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.
The flue's draft prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead they are taken out to cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check your chimney regularly for any leaks or blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, should be cleaned using specific cleaning chemicals and equipment. 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.
Keeping the flue closed when you're not using your fireplace can help keep conditioned indoor air from escaping. This also prevents rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and damaging your 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 opened or closed by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open when a fire is burning, but it should be shut when not in use to lower your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation from your fireplace.