What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide beauty and value to the property.

If your fireplace requires to be repainted or just minor repairs, these tasks can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to trained professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for an open wood stove or fireplace. It may be a whole elevated area or just the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is used to describe all of the components of a fireplace, including the firebox, the raised floor, the mantel and the chimney, is often used. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. Check with your local authority for further information.

They can be made of cement, bricks, or stone. They are a fantastic focal feature for any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other equipment.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, security, and warmth.

Although a hearth offers numerous benefits, it could also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase nitrogen levels in blood, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. At high concentrations it can cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

Hearths were originally made of stone however, they are now typically made of brick or concrete. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking luxury fireplaces come with hearths that completely cover the wall while others are smaller and purely decorative elements that cover the fireplace's opening. The material used in a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, price and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth which enhances the atmosphere of the room. Besides its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element as it keeps combustible substances away from the fireplace and reflects heat from the room. It also serves as an area to store household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of materials that can be used for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible, while others must comply with local and federal fire codes regarding clearance distances from items that are combustible.

The most popular choices for surrounds are brick, stone or concrete. Some stone surrounds are carved with decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also feature plinths or cornices. These details can give a house a more refined look that complements its style.

Plaster is another option. It is an amalgamation of sand cement, and water. It can be crafted to match any style of architecture. For instance, a textured surround can complement a Mission-style home.

Tile is the last choice for a surround. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create a dramatic focal. Tile is a great choice for homes with a contemporary or modern style.

The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living space. It is essential to select an item that sets the mood for your space and to enhance the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is the area behind a fireplace's opening where the fire can be constructed and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a type of chimney that allows the smoke to escape through. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, however some can also burn gas like natural gas or propane.

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

It is important to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good condition and its liner. The inside of the fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust because of its constant exposure to high temperatures. To clean it, employ wire brushes or a scraper to remove the caked on ash and soot.

It's also a good 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 types of metals resist corrosion and will not corrosion. 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 people also use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Make sure that the fireplace you choose to use is UL certified. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you put on it.

The Burner

Burners are a simple way to add warmth and style to any space. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes that make it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control the flames from any place in the house. They are also safe to use, making them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor areas.

There are many types of burners. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but they all provide a variety advantages to your home. Some are more secure than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. Whatever kind of burner you pick be sure to adhere to the directions in the user's manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all local and state laws.

The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, but it's not always practical. The smoke and soot generated from burning wood can be hazardous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and very little CO2, which is more eco-friendly.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, trees be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, leading them to fall and power lines below. If the electricity in your home goes out and you need to find the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The flu

The flue is an inner tunnel in a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace to 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 stops the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back down into your home and instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. It is this regulated venting that helps prevent 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 center of the chimney, must be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a brush made of Metal fireplaces and an electric drill fitted using a masonry drill, as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any soot or creosote that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.

Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. This also stops wind or rain from entering the fireplace and causing damage to your wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper can be opened and Metal Fireplaces closed using a latch or handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace near the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open when there is a fire burning, but it should be closed when not in use to help lower your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals out of your fireplace professionals.