What Are Fireplace Accessories?

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

If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some minor repairs, these tasks can often be completed by homeowners. However, certain tasks that require gas service should be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that surrounds the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is usually used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace including the firebox, raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless crucial to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so contact your local authority for more details.

They can be made of stone, bricks or cement. They are a fantastic focal point for any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other supplies.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to the early human era. Many believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and security.

Although a hearth can provide many benefits, it can cause serious health problems in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises nitrogen levels in the blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). At high concentrations, it can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness.

Traditionally, hearths were built out of stone, but they are now commonly made of concrete or brick and can be in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that span the whole wall while others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to make the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance, cost, and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel", is the frame over the hearth that enhances the ambiance of a room. It's not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical because it keeps combustibles out from the fire and also deflects heat back into the space. It also serves as a shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.

There are different options depending on the type and size of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, product and others must be in compliance with federal and Product local fire codes in regards to clearance distances from items that are combustible.

Some of the most popular choices for surrounds include concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds have decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give an elegant look that complements the style of the home.

Plaster is another option. It can be made from a mix of cement and sand, then decorated to match any style of architecture. For instance, a textured surround can go well with a Mission style house.

Tile is the best option for a surround. This material is available in a wide variety of patterns and colors. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or spread across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal feature. Tile is a great choice for homes with modern or contemporary styles.

The surround is one of the first things people notice when they enter a living space. It is essential to select an item that will set the mood for your space and add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is the part behind a fireplace's opening where the fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually covered by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. These traditional structures usually burn wood, however some can also use gas, such as natural gas or propane.

The firebox is the place where the fire is created and it must be maintained in a way that ensures safety and effectiveness. The firebox is comprised of several essential components. These include the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.

In addition to keeping the firebox and lining in good shape It's also important to clean your fireplace on a regular basis. The interior of the fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. To accomplish this, make use of a wire brush or a scraper to take off the caked on ash and soot.

It's also a great idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox to ensure durability and long-term use. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't get rusty. They also offer more uniform heat distribution and last for longer.

You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Make sure the fireplace you select is UL certified. This is not just the fireplace, but any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add heat and aesthetics to any room. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of sizes and shapes that make it easy to find the ideal one for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.

There are a variety of burners. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks. Some are more expensive than others, however all offer a range of benefits for your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. No matter what type of burner you choose ensure that you follow the instructions in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and in compliance with all state and local regulations.

Wood burning is a classic way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always efficient. Apart from the fact that it's messy and inconvenient, the smoke and soot it creates can be unhealthy for you and your family. bio ethanol fireplace fire-burners are on the other hand, produce only CO2 and water vapor - which is much more sustainable.

A fireplace can also be beneficial in the case of a power outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall, and even knock down under-hanging power lines. If the electricity is not working in your home it is possible to use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a major plus for those who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an internal tunnel in a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace away from your house. It is also an essential element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue generates a wind that pulls 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 pushed out to cool. This controlled venting keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.

Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, must be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. The metal brush, a drill equipped with a brick bit and masking tape are all needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Keeping the flue closed when you aren't using your fireplace can help keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops rain or wind gusts from getting into the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.

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