A Provocative Rant About Fireplace
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day long and into the night long. They also enhance the beauty and value of the house.
Homeowners can complete most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace needs a facelift or some simple repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to skilled professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that is used to surround the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a elevated area or just the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is often used to describe the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless important to note that there are strict fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please check with your local governing body for more information.
Hearths are typically constructed from brick, stone or cement and can be the focal point of any room. freestanding fireplace 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 items.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. It is widely believed that they provided food, protection, light and warmth.
Although a hearth offers many advantages, it can also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in blood which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. It can lead to dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness at high levels.
Hearths were once made of stone but they are now typically made of brick or concrete. They can come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material of a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that sits above the hearth, and is a part of the atmosphere of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a practical element since it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat from the room. It can also be used as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are a variety of materials that can be used for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others need to meet the national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from fire-prone objects.
Some popular choices for surrounds include concrete, brick, and stone. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also have cornices or plinths. These features can give a home a more sophisticated look that complements the style.
Another option is plaster. It is made from a mix of sand and cement, and decorated to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for instance can go well with the look of a Mission style house.
The final option for an interior fireplace surround is tile. It is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surrounding area or extended over the entire wall to create an impressive focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes with modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is one of the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. It is important to select an item that sets the mood for your space and also to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the space behind the fireplace's opening, where the fire can be created and maintained. The firebox is typically enclosed by a chimney that allows the smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the area where the fire is created and it must be maintained properly for security and effectiveness. The firebox consists of several important components. These include the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.
In addition to keeping the firebox and lining in good shape It's also important to clean out your fireplace regularly. Since it's always exposed to high temperatures, the interior will be covered in soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. To accomplish this, make use of a wire brush or a scraper to remove the caked on ash and soot.
For longevity and durability, it's recommended to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't be rusty. They also provide more even heat distribution and last for longer.
In the end you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Make sure the fireplace you use is UL certified. This includes the fireplace, as along with any accessories or decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add warmth and style to any space. These fireplace accessories come in many different sizes and shapes, so it's easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some are even equipped with remotes so that you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many kinds of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however they all provide a variety advantages to your home. Some are more secure than others models, and some can be used with or without chimneys. Whatever kind of burner you pick be sure to follow the guidelines included in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in conformity with all local and state regulations.
While burning wood is the most popular way to enjoy the flame of a fireplace, it's not always the most practical. Besides the fact that it's messy and inconvenient it also produces smoke and soot that it releases can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol fire burners are, however produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 which is more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall, and even knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm if the power is cut off in your home. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an inner tunnel of the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace out of your house. It is also an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates a breeze that pulls air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gases emitted by the fire from blowing back down into your home, and instead carrying them out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Your chimney must be inspected regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill fitted with a brick bit and masking tape are needed to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace can help keep conditioned indoor air from escaping. This also prevents wind or rain from entering the fireplace and damaging your gas or wood stove furnace.
The damper can be closed and opened using a latch or handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace near the flue pipe or tile. It is designed to keep the flue open while the fire is burning however it should be closed when not in use to help reduce your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals out of your fireplace.