What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are central to many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide beauty and value to the home.

If your fireplace requires to be repainted or just basic repairs, these projects are often completed by homeowners. However, certain tasks that require gas service must be left to professionals with the proper training.

The Hearth

The hearth is the noncombustible floor to an open fireplace or wood stove. It may be a whole elevated area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The term "hearth" is commonly used to describe the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, raised mantel and floor and the chimney. However, it is important to note that there are very specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.

Hearths are generally made of stone, brick or cement. They can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers or even logs. They also offer space to store fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.

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

Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can cause serious health problems if not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood, which prevents the red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness in high levels.

Hearths were traditionally constructed out of rock, however they are nowadays constructed out of brick or concrete and come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that span the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that only cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to make the hearth can have a huge impact on its appearance cost, as well as its the resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the ambiance of a room. Besides its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element as it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and deflects heat into the room. It can also be used as an area to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.

There are various options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must comply with the fire codes of the local and federal government in relation to clearance distances from combustible items.

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

Plaster is another alternative. It is an amalgamation of sand cement and water and can be shaped to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for example can go well with the look of a Mission style home.

Tile is the last choice for a wall. It is available in a myriad of patterns and colors. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround, or spread across the entire wall for an impressive focal feature. Tile is an excellent choice for homes in contemporary styles.

The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a living space. This is why it is essential to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and increase your home's value.

The Firebox

The firebox is the part behind the fireplace's opening, where a fire can be built and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Traditional structures usually use wood, however they can also burn gas like propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you are using the firebox is the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are the most important parts of the firebox for efficient operation.

In addition to maintaining the firebox and its liner in good shape It's also important to clean your fireplace regularly. Since it's always exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be covered in soot and ash that need to be cleared. To accomplish this, employ a wire brush or scraper to get rid of the caked-on ash and soot.

For longevity and durability It's a good idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These types of metals resist corrosion and won't be rusty. They will also provide a more even heat distribution and last longer.

Finally you can add a bit of visual flair to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Make sure that the fireplace you use is UL approved. This includes not only the fireplace, but any accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and beauty to any space. They are available in various shapes and sizes that make it easy to find the ideal one for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control the flames from any location in the home. Fire burners are safe to use, which makes them a great option for indoor and outdoor spaces.

There are many different types of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, but they all offer a range of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with or without chimneys. No matter what kind of burner you select ensure that you follow the directions provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all local and state regulations.

Wood burning is a classic way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always the most convenient. Besides the fact that it's messy and uninspiring as well as the smoke and soot that it releases can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol fire burners are on the other hand produce water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which may cause them to fall and knock down power lines that hang below. If the power in your home goes out it is possible to use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a tunnel inside a chimney which carries smoke and gases out of the home. It's also an essential component of a secure and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduce smoke.

The flue's draft prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. It is this regulated venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Regularly inspect your chimney for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits and masking tape are all needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has been stuck on the chimney's walls. flue pipe.

Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. This can also stop rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and causing damage to your wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened with a latch or handle. It is designed to keep the flue open when a fire is burning however it should be shut when not in use to help reduce your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.