What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the home.
Homeowners can complete most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace requires facelifts or basic repairs. However, certain tasks that require gas service should be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible floor to the fireplace or wood stove. It could be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is commonly used to describe the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox,
buy raised floor and mantel as well as the chimney. However, it is important to remember that there are very specific fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its accessories should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.
Hearths are generally constructed of brick, stone or cement, and are the focal point of any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fireplace and the flooring and protect against accidental fires triggered by stray embers or logs. They also provide a space for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.
Archaeological studies have revealed that hearths played a significant role in early human life. Many believe that hearths were the source of food, light, warmth and security.
A hearth could be a source of serious health problems when it isn't maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases blood levels of nitrogen which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. At high levels it can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Traditionally, hearths were constructed out of stone, but they are nowadays constructed of concrete or brick and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that completely cover the wall, while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that only cover the fireplace's opening. The material used in a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel", is the frame above the hearth which enhances the ambience of an area. Besides its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element since it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat from the space. It can also be used as an area to display household items like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are various materials that can be used for the surround. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet the national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from the combustible object.
Popular choices for the surround are stone, brick or concrete. Some stone surrounds have decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds can also feature cornices or plinths. These elements can give a house a more sophisticated design that matches the style.
Plaster is a different alternative. It is a mixture of sand, cement, and water. It can be finished to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for instance can go well with a Mission style home.
Tile is the best option for a surround. This material is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround, or spread across the entire
electric wall fireplace to create an eye-catching focal feature. Tile is a great option for homes that have contemporary styles.
The surround is among the first things that guests see when they enter a living space. This is why it is crucial to select the right piece that will set the tone for your space and add to the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind the fireplace's opening, where the fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood but some also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.
Regardless of what type of fuel you choose to use the firebox is the place the place where combustion occurs and must be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all vital components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.
In addition to keeping the firebox and interior in good condition, it's important to clean your fireplace frequently. Since it's constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be soiled with soot and ash, which needs to be cleared. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to clean the ash and soot that have been clogged on.
It's also a good idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox to ensure long-term durability and
gadimark.free.fr longevity. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They will also provide a more uniform heat distribution and last for longer.
You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people also choose to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you use is UL rated. This includes the fireplace, as well as any accessories and decorations you add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add warmth and beauty to any space. They are available in various shapes and sizes which makes it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control the flames from anywhere in the house. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many types of burners. Each one has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however all offer a range 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 included in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.
The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, but it's not always the most practical. Apart from the fact that it's messy and uninspiring as well as the smoke and soot that it releases can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol burners create water vapor and very low levels of CO2, which is more sustainable.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down power lines that hang below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm if the electricity goes out 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 element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduce smoke.
The flue's draft keeps the hot gases emitted by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead they are taken out to cool. This controlled venting prevents carbon monoxide.
Check your chimney regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using specific cleaning equipment and chemicals.