The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Fireplace
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also add beauty and value to the home.
Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or basic repairs, these projects can often be completed by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services should be left to experts.
The Hearth
The hearth is a noncombustible surface that is used to surround a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a complete raised area or simply the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace including the firebox, raised floor and mantel and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to note that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please contact your local authority for more information.
Hearths are usually constructed of brick, stone or cement, and are a focal point of any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fireplace and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires that are caused by stray embers or logs. They also offer space to store fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.
Archaeological research has revealed the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. Many people believe that hearths supplied warmth, light, food, and protection.
Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can cause serious health problems when it is not maintained properly. Smoke exposure increases blood nitrogen levels which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. It can lead to dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.
Hearths were once made of stone but they are now often made of brick or concrete. They can come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that only cover the fireplace's opening. The material used to make a hearth has a great impact on its appearance cost, as well as its resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and adds to the ambience of a room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and deflects heat from the room. It also serves as an area to store household items such as mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, while others must comply with the fire codes of the local and federal government in relation to clearance distances from items that are combustible.
Some popular choices for surrounds include stone, brick and concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These details can give a home an elegant look that complements the style.
Plaster is a different option. It is a mix of sand, cement, and water. It can be shaped to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for instance, can complement the look of a Mission style home.
The last popular choice for a electric fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used as an accent to the surround or spread across the entire wall to create an impressive focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes with a contemporary or modern style.
The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a room. For this reason, it is essential to choose an item that sets the tone for your space and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind the fireplace's opening where a fire can be created and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, however they can also burn gas like propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the area where combustion occurs and must be maintained in a way that ensures safety and efficiency. The firebox is comprised of several important components. This includes the grate as well as the fire poker and the air damper.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good shape and its liner. Since it's constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be covered in soot and ash which need to be cleared. To accomplish this, employ wire brushes or a scraper to take off the caked on soot and ash.
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 have an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also make your fireplace electric with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people also choose to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you select is UL certified. This is not just the fireplace, but the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy method to add warmth and style to a space. They are available in many different dimensions and shapes, so it's easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors or outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many types of burners. Each one has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all have a variety of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and some can be used with or without chimneys. Whatever type of burners you choose, always follow the instructions provided in the manual. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance to the laws of your state and local authorities.
Burning wood is a traditional method of enjoying your marble fireplace, but it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot created by burning wood could be dangerous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol fire-burners are, however produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 which is a lot more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace suite is that it can be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, leading them to fall and power lines to drop below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm if the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is an inner tunnel in the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace out of your home. It is also an important element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn, as well as reduce smoke.
The draft action of the flue keeps the hot gases emitted from the fire from escaping into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. This controlled venting is what keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.
Regularly inspect your chimney for any leaks or blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, must be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill with a brick bit and masking tape are needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to stop the conditioned air from venting out. It also prevents winds or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your freestanding fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper can be opened and closed using a latch or handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace near the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open while a fire is burning, but it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy costs and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.
