What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also enhance the value and appeal of the interior of your home.

Homeowners can tackle many of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace needs a facelift or some easy repairs. Certain tasks that require gas should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is the noncombustible flooring of the fireplace or wood stove. It could be a complete elevated area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is commonly used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, raised mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety rules regarding the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. Check with your local authority for further information.

They can be constructed from cement, bricks, or stone. They make a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires that are caused by stray embers or logs. They also offer space to store fireplace tools, wood and other supplies.

Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as the central to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.

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

Hearths were traditionally constructed of rock but they are nowadays constructed of concrete or brick and can be in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that span the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to build a fireplace can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as a mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and enhances the ambiance of a room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a useful element as it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat into the space. It can also serve as an area to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.

There are different options depending on the size and type of the fireplace. Some are non-combustible while others must meet national and local fire codes for clearance distances from the combustible object.

Some popular choices for surrounds include concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. The stone surrounds could include plinths or cornices. These features can give a house a more refined appearance that is in harmony with its style.

Another option is to use plaster. It is an amalgamation of sand cement and water and can be finished to match any architectural style. For instance, a textured surround can go well with a Mission style home.

Tile is the last choice for a wall fires. Tiles are available in a range of designs and colors. It can be used to enhance the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes with modern fireplace or contemporary styles.

The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a living space. It is crucial to choose a piece to set the mood for your space and enhance the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the fireplace opening, where a fire can be constructed and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. These traditional structures usually burn wood, but they can also burn gas such as natural gas or propane.

No matter what kind of fuel you choose to use the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are all vital parts of the firebox for efficient operation.

In addition to maintaining the firebox and its interior in good condition, it's important to clean your fireplace regularly. The interior of your fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To do this, you can make use of a wire brush or a scraper to remove the caked on soot and ash.

It's also a good idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure long-term durability and longevity. These types of metals can resist corrosion and will not rust. They will also provide a more even heat distribution and last longer.

Additionally you can add a bit of visual flair to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Make sure that the marble fireplace you choose to use is UL approved. This is not just the fireplace itself but also the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are an easy method to add warmth and beauty to a space. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect burner for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control the flames from any place in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors or outdoors, as they are safe.

There are a variety of burners. Each one has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all have a myriad of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. Whatever type of burner you choose ensure that you follow the instructions in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in compliance with all local and state regulations.

The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always practical. The smoke and soot generated by burning wood could be harmful to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners produce water vapor and very little CO2, which is more eco-friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be useful in the event of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can build up on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm in the event that the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a tunnel inside the chimney, which is used to transport gases and smoke out of the home. It's also an essential component of a secure and efficient fire. A flue creates a breeze that pulls air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The drafting action of the flue keeps the hot gases emitted by the bioethanol fire from leaking back into your home, instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. It is this controlled venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your chimney needs to be regularly inspected for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill with brick bits and masking tape are needed to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Close the flue when not using your fireplace to stop the conditioned air from venting out. This can also stop rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to your wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper can be opened and closed with a latch or handle. It is located at the uppermost part of your fireplace close to the flue tile or pipe. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open while a fire is burning. However, it should be closed when the fireplace inserts is not being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.