Don't Buy Into These "Trends" About Fireplace
Don't Buy Into These "Trends" About Fireplace
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort all day long and into the night long. They also provide value and aesthetics to the home.
Homeowners can tackle most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires an overhaul or just a few easy repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to professionals with the proper training.
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 often used to describe the entire area of the fireplace, including the firebox, the mantel and floor and the chimney. It is essential to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the design of the fireplace and its accessories. You should consult your local authority for more details.
They can be made from cement, bricks, or stone. They are a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to form an enclosure between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also offer a place for storing fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.
Archaeological research has revealed that hearths were important to the early human era. Many believe that hearths supplied warmth, light, food and security.
A hearth could cause serious health problems if it is not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in the blood, which prevents the red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness in high levels.
Hearths were originally made of stone, but are now more commonly made from brick or concrete. They can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that are able to cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used to construct a hearth has a great 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 that is placed above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of the room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it also serves as a useful element since it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat away from the space. It also serves as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the type of fireplace, there are various materials that can be used for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must comply with the fire codes of the local and federal government in relation to clearance distances from combustible items.
The most popular options for surrounds are stone, brick or concrete. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. The stone surrounds could also feature cornices or plinths. These details can give a home a more sophisticated look that complements the style.
Another option is plaster. This material can be made from a mix of cement and sand, and decorated to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for instance, can complement an Mission style house.
The final option for a fireplace surround is tile. It comes in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as an accent to the surround or spread over the whole wall for an eye-catching focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes in a contemporary style.
The surround is one of 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 also to enhance the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be created and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.
No matter what kind of fuel you are using the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and must be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The check here grate in the hearth as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all vital parts of the firebox for efficient operation.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good condition and the interior lining. Since it's always exposed to high temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. To clean it, make use of a wire brush or scraper to get rid of the caked on soot and ash.
To ensure durability and longevity It's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't be rusty. They will also provide a more uniform heat distribution and last for longer.
Additionally you can add a bit of visual flair to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some homeowners also opt to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Make sure the fireplace you select is UL certified. This includes the fireplace as along with any accessories or decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular method to add warmth and beauty to any space. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes that make it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some come with remotes, which means 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 a variety of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, but all offer a range of advantages for your home. Some are more secure than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick ensure that you follow the directions provided in the user's manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all state and local laws.
While burning wood is the most popular method of enjoying a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot generated from burning wood can be hazardous to you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners are, however produce CO2 and water vapor which is more sustainable.
A fireplace can also prove useful in the event of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall and knock down power lines that hang below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm in the event that the power 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 in a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace to your house. It's also a key element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue creates a wind which draws air into the fire. This allows the fuel to burn completely and reduces smoke.
The drafting of the flue stops the hot gases emitted by the fire from billowing back into your home, instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. This controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
The chimney should be inspected regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a brush made of metal and an electric drill fitted using a masonry tool and masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or soot stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
The flue should be kept closed when you're not using your fireplace will help prevent the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops wind or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper can be opened and closed by using a latch or a handle. It is located on the top of your fireplace near the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open when there is a fire burning however, it should be closed when not in use to help lower your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.