What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are central to many homes that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and at night. They also add beauty and value to the home.

Homeowners can complete most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or just a few basic repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for the wood stove or fireplace. It could be a complete elevated area or simply the foundation on which the electric fireplace sits. The term "hearth" is commonly used to describe the entire area of the Tabletop Fireplace including the firebox, the raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. You should consult your local authority for more details.

Hearths are typically made of stone, brick or cement. They can be the 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 tools as well as wood and other supplies.

Archaeological research has revealed the importance of hearths as a key to early human existence. Many believe that hearths were the source of food, light, warmth and even protection.

A hearth could be a source of serious health problems if it's not maintained properly. Smoke exposure increases nitrogen levels in blood, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness in high levels.

Hearths were traditionally constructed out of stone, but they are now made of concrete or brick and can be in different sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall fireplace, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace inserts opening. The material of a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and adds to the ambiance of a room. It is not just visually appealing, but also practical since it shields combustibles from the fire and deflects heat back into the space. It can also be used as a shelf to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet the national and local fire codes for clearance distances from the combustible object.

The most popular choices for surrounds are stone, brick or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. They may also have cornices or plinths. These details can give your home a more sophisticated look that complements the style.

Another option is to use plaster. It is a mixture of sand, cement and water and can be shaped to match any style of architecture. For instance, a textured surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style home.

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

The surround is one of the first things that guests see when entering a living space. It is crucial to choose an item that will set the tone for your space and enhance the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening in which a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, however some also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.

No matter what kind of fuel you choose to use, the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital elements of the firebox that must be in place for the proper operation.

It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes keeping the firebox in good condition and the interior lining. The interior of the fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To do this, you can use a wire brush or a scraper to take off the caked on ash and soot.

For durability and long-term longevity, it's an excellent idea to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't be rusty. They'll also provide an even heat distribution which will last longer.

Finally you can add a bit of visual flair to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Be sure that the glass you're using for your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes not only the fireplace itself but also the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any room. These fireplace accessories come in many different sizes and shapes and shapes, making it easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control the flames from anywhere in the house. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, making them a great option for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are many different types of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages for your home. Some are safer than others, and can be used with or without a chimney. No matter which kind of burner you select ensure that you follow the directions provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in conformity with all state and local regulations.

Wood burning is a classic method of enjoying your fireplace, but it's not always the most efficient. Apart from the fact that it's messy and uninspiring it also produces smoke and soot that it releases can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand produce CO2 and water vapor which is a lot more environmentally friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be helpful in the event of an outage. In winter, trees can become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, causing them to fall, and power lines to fall below. If the power supply in your house goes out, you can use the fireplace stove to stay warm and cook food. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an inside tunnel inside a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace away from your house. It is also an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing fuel to burn fully and reduce smoke.

The drafting action of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back down into your home, instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your chimney needs to be inspected regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, needs to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a brush made of metal and the use of a drill using a masonry tool, 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 not using your fireplace to prevent the conditioned air from escape. This also stops wind or rain from entering the fireplace and causing damage to your gas or wood stove furnace.

The damper can be shut and opened with a latch or handle. It is located on the uppermost part of your fireplace close to the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open when there is a fire burning however, it should be closed when not in use to help reduce your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation from your fireplace.