What Are Fireplace Accessories?

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

Homeowners can complete some of these projects, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or basic repairs. Certain tasks that require gas must be left to professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible floor to the fireplace or wood stove. It could be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is commonly used to describe the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the mantel and floor, [Redirect Only] as well as the chimney. It is essential to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the construction of the fireplace and its accessories. Please consult your local governing authority for more information.

Hearths are generally constructed from brick, stone or cement and can be an important focal point in any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They also offer a place to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths played a significant role in the early human era. Many believe that hearths supplied food, light, warmth and security.

Although a hearth offers many advantages, it can also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness at high levels.

Hearths were traditionally constructed out of stone, but they are nowadays constructed of concrete or brick and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking bio-ethanol fireplaces have hearths that span the entire wall mount fireplaces, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material used in a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, price and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel", is the frame over the hearth that adds to the ambience of an area. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element since it keeps combustible substances away from the hearth and disperses heat away from the room. It also serves as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Certain surrounds are not combustible, while others must meet federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances from items that are combustible.

The most popular choices for surrounds are brick, stone or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may include plinths or cornices. These elements can give your home an elegant appearance that is in harmony with its style.

Plaster is another option. This material can be created by mixing cement and sand, then finished to match any design. A plaster surround, for example, can complement an Mission style house.

Tile is the final option for a surround. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal feature. It is a fantastic choice for homes in a contemporary style.

The surround is among the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. It is important to select an item that will set the tone for your home and to add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is an area behind the fireplace's opening in which a fire can be created and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood but some also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.

The firebox is the place where combustion occurs and should be maintained in order to ensure security and effectiveness. The firebox is comprised of several important components. These include the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.

It is important to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and its interior lining. Since it's always exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be matted with soot and ash that need to be cleared. You can employ a scraper or wirebrush to remove the soot and ash that has been caked on.

To ensure durability and longevity it's an excellent idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These types of metals resist corrosion and won't rust. They also offer an even heat distribution, which will last longer.

You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Just be certain that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL approved for safety. This is not just the fireplace, but the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular method to add warmth and beauty to any space. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find one that fits your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control flames from any location in the home. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many different types of burners, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages to your home. Some are safer than other ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. No matter which kind of burner you select, always follow the instructions provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.

While burning wood is the most traditional way to enjoy a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. Besides the fact that it's messy and inconvenient as well as the smoke and soot that it releases can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor and very little CO2, which is more eco-friendly.

A fireplace can also be helpful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and slam down power lines hanging from the ceiling. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm in the event that the power is cut off in your home. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an inside tunnel inside a chimney, which carries the gases and smoke from your fireplace away from your house. It's also a key element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing fuel to burn fully and reducing smoke.

The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back into your home, instead, they go out to the outside where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.

The chimney should be checked regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill fitted with brick bits, bio-ethanol fireplace and masking tape are all required to remove any tarnish or soot that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Close the flue when not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from escape. It also stops winds or rain 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 at the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue clear when a fire is burning. However it should be shut when the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save money on your energy bills.