15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life

What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and all night long. They also add value and beauty to the interior of your home.

Homeowners can complete some of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace requires facelifts or simple repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It may be a whole raised area or simply the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The word "hearth" is usually used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, raised mantel and floor and the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. You should consult your local authority for more information.

They can be made of cement, bricks, or stone. They make 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 that are caused by stray embers or logs. They also offer space for storing fireplace tools, wood and other supplies.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. Many people believe that hearths were the source of warmth, light, food, and protection.

Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can also cause serious health issues in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases nitrogen levels in blood, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness at high levels.

Hearths were traditionally constructed out of rock, however they are now commonly made out of brick or concrete and can come in different shapes and sizes. Some cooking marble fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that are only covering the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to construct the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance cost, as well as its heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame that sits above the hearth that adds to the atmosphere of an area. Besides its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element as it keeps combustible substances away from the fireplace and reflects heat from the room. It can also serve as a shelf to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.

There are various options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, and others must be in compliance with federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances from items that are combustible.

Popular choices for the surround are brick, stone or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. The stone surrounds could also feature cornices or plinths. These elements can give a more refined appearance that is in keeping with the style of the house.

Another option is to use plaster. This material is made from an amalgamation of sand cement, and water. It can be crafted to match any architectural style. For instance, a textured surround can go well with a Mission style home.

The most popular option for the fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surround or extended over the entire wall to create a dramatic focal. Tile is a great option for homes with a contemporary or modern fireplace style.

The surround is among the first things that guests see upon entering a space. It is essential to select an item that sets the mood for your space and to add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is usually enclosed by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. These traditional structures usually burn wood, however some can also use gas such as propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you choose to use the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and must be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all vital components of the firebox to ensure proper operation.

It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good shape and the liner. Since it's always exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be matted with soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that have been clogged on.

It's also a good idea to utilize steel slag or steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure durability and long-term use. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't rust. They also offer more even heat distribution and last longer.

You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Be sure that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL rated for safety. This includes not only the fireplace itself, but also the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any room. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes that make it easy to locate 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 are safe to use, which makes them a great option for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are many different types of burners, each with their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages to your home. Some are safer than others, and a few can be used with or without chimneys. Whatever type of burner you choose ensure that you follow the instructions in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all local and state regulations.

While burning wood fireplaces is the most popular way to enjoy an open flame, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot created from burning wood can be hazardous to your family and you. Ethanol fires, on the other hand produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more eco-friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be useful in the event of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which may cause them to fall and knock down under-hanging power lines. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm in the event that the power goes out in your home. This is a major plus for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a passageway inside the chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn, as well as reduces smoke.

The flue's draft stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead, they are carried outside to cool. This regulated venting is what stops carbon monoxide from escaping.

Check your chimney regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush and a drill using a masonry tool, as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any soot or creosote that is stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.

The flue should be kept closed when you're not using your fireplace will help prevent conditioned indoor air from escaping. This also stops rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and damaging the wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles, and at the top of the fireplace is able to be closed or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue open while the fire is burning. However it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This can help you save money on your energy bills.