What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that offer warmth and comfort all day and all night. They also add value and beauty to the house.
If your fireplace requires to be repainted or just minor repairs, these tasks can often be completed by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to professionals with the proper training.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible flooring of a fireplace or wood stove. It can be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The word “hearth” is often used to describe the entirety of the fireplace, including the firebox, the raised mantel and floor as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless crucial to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how a fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so contact your local authority for more details.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement, and are a focal point of any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or even logs. They also offer a place to store fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to the early human era. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth can provide numerous benefits, it could cause serious health problems when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase blood nitrogen levels which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. At high concentrations it may cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Traditionally, hearths were built out of stone, but they are now made out of brick or concrete and can be in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that cover the entire wall and others are smaller and purely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in a hearth can significantly affect its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a “mantel”, is the frame above the hearth that adds to the ambience of the room. It’s not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional as it keeps combustibles away from the flame and redirects heat back to the room. It can also be used as a shelf to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Certain surrounds are not combustible and others must be in compliance with federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances away from items that are combustible.
Some of the most popular choices for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds are carved with decorative features such as bevels or bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may include plinths or cornices. These elements can give a more refined appearance that complements the style of the home.
Another option is to use plaster. This material is made from an amalgamation of sand cement and water. It can be finished to match any architectural style. For example, a plaster surround can go well with a Mission style house.
Tile is the best option for a surround. This material is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surround, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal. It is a fantastic choice for homes in contemporary styles.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when entering a living space. For this reason, it is crucial to select a piece that will set the tone of your space and add to the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually covered by a chimney, allowing the smoke to escape. Most of the time, lynn bolvin these traditional structures burn wood, however they can also burn gas such as natural gas or propane.
Regardless of what type of fuel you use the firebox is the location where the combustion takes place and must be maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is made up of a number of important parts. This includes the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good shape and the interior lining. Because it is constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be matted with soot and ash which need to be removed. To accomplish this, employ wire brushes or a scraper to remove the caked-on soot and ash.
It’s also a great idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior Lynn Bolvin of the firebox to ensure durability and long-term use. These types of metals can resist corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer more uniform heat distribution and last longer.
Finally you can add a bit of visual interest to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also choose to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Make certain that whatever you’re using in your fireplace is UL rated for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular method to add heat and aesthetics to any room. They come in various sizes and shapes which makes it easy to locate the ideal burner for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors and outdoors, as they are safe.
There are many types of burners. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. Whatever type of burners you choose ensure that you follow the directions provided in the manual. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all state and local laws.
Wood burning is a classic way to enjoy your fireplace, but it’s not always efficient. Besides the fact that it’s messy and inconvenient, the smoke and soot that it releases can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be helpful in the event of an outage. In winter, lynnbolvin trees can be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to fall below. 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 solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is a tunnel within the chimney, which is used to transport smoke and gases out of the house. It is also an important element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates a wind that draws air into the fire. This allows the fuel to burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, and instead, they go out to the outside where they can cool. It is this controlled venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
The chimney should be checked regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, must be cleaned using specific cleaning equipment and chemicals. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits and masking tape are all required to get rid of any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace to prevent the conditioned air from escape. It also helps prevent wind or rain from getting into the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper can be closed and opened with a latch or handle. It is located on the uppermost part of your fireplace close to the flue pipe or tile. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace’s flue clear when the fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.
