What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have Fireplaces fireplace that offer warmth and comfort all day long and into the night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the home.

If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some simple repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that is used to surround a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is usually used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the raised mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are strict fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please check with your local governing body for more information.

They can be made of bricks, stone or cement. They are a great focal point for any room. They are designed to form an enclosure between the fire and the flooring. They also protect against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also offer space to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

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

Although a hearth offers many advantages, it can also cause serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation can increase nitrogen levels in blood, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. It can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness in high levels.

Traditionally, hearths were built of rock but they are now made of concrete or brick and come in a variety of 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 in the construction of 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 known as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth that enhances the ambiance of a room. It is not just visually pleasing, but also functional as it keeps combustibles away from the fire and deflects heat back into the room. It also serves as a shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others must be in compliance with the national and local standards for clearance distances from combustible objects.

The most popular options for surrounds are brick, stone, or concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with decorative features like bevels or bolection moulding. They may also have cornices or plinths. These elements can give an elegant appearance that complements the style of the home.

Another option is to use plaster. This material can be made with a mixture of cement and sand, and it is then finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for instance can go well with the look of a Mission style home.

The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles come in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall fireplace to create a striking focal point. Tile is an excellent choice for homes in a contemporary style.

The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living space. It is for this reason that it is essential to choose an item that sets the tone for your space and increase your home's value.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is typically enclosed by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, however some also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.

The firebox is where combustion occurs and must be maintained properly for safety and effectiveness. The firebox consists of several important components. They include the grate and 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 liner. The interior of the fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to clean the soot and ash that has been caked on.

For durability and long-term longevity It's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't get rusty. They also provide more even heat distribution and last for longer.

Finally, you can add some visual flair to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also make use of modern fireplace decorative glass as an alternative. Make sure that the fireplace you choose to use is UL rated. This is not just the white fireplace itself, but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are an easy method to add warmth and beauty to a space. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, which means you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors and outdoors, since they are safe.

There are many different types of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all have a variety of advantages. Certain are more secure than others, and a few can be used with or without a chimney. Whatever kind of burner you select, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.

While burning wood is the most popular way to enjoy an open flame, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot generated by burning wood could be hazardous to your family and you. Ethanol fire burners are on the other hand produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 which is a lot more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also be beneficial in the case of a power outage. In winter, trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to drop below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the electricity is out in your home. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an inner tunnel of the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace to your house. It is 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 drafting action of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, instead, they go out, where they will cool. This controlled venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.

Check your chimney regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, must be cleaned using special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush and an electric drill fitted using a masonry tool as well as masking tape and an utility knife for removing any soot or creosote that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.

Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops rain or wind gusts from entering the chimney and causing damage to 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 by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open while there is a fire burning however, it should be closed when not in use to lower your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.