10 Things Everybody Has To Say About Fireplace
10 Things Everybody Has To Say About Fireplace
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and all night. They also add value and beauty to the interior of your home.
Homeowners can take on most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace needs 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 flooring for a fireplace or wood stove. It could be a complete elevated area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth", which is used to describe all the fireplace's components, including the firebox, the floor that is raised as well as the mantel and chimney, is often used. It is nevertheless crucial to keep in mind that there are very specific fire safety rules regarding how a fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please contact your local authority for more details.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement. They can be the focal point of any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires triggered by stray embers or logs. They also offer space for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to the early human era. Many people believe that hearths supplied warmth, light, food and even protection.
Although a hearth can provide numerous benefits, it could also trigger serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke exposure increases blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. In high doses, it can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were once made of stone but they are now often made of brick or concrete. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that cover the entire wall, while others are smaller and solely decorative pieces that only cover the fireplace's opening. The material used to build a fireplace can significantly affect its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and adds to the ambience of a room. It's not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional since it shields combustibles from the fire and also deflects heat back into the space. It can also serve as an extra shelf for household items like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the type of fireplace, there are several alternatives for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others must meet local and national standards for clearance distances from fire-prone objects.
The most popular options for the surround include concrete, brick, and stone. Some stone surrounds have decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. They can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give a more refined appearance that can complement the style of the home.
Another option is to use plaster. It is created by mixing sand and cement, and it is then finished to match any style of architecture. For instance, a plaster surround can complement a Mission-style home.
The last popular choice for a fireplace surround is tile. It comes in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or extended across the entire wall to create an impressive focal point. Tile is a great option for homes that have modern style.
The surround is among the first things guests notice upon entering a space. It is important to select an item that sets the tone for your home and also to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the space behind a fireplace opening where a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney, allowing smoke to escape. These traditional structures usually burn wood, however some may also utilize gas, such as natural gas or propane.
The firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and should be maintained in order to ensure safety and efficiency. The firebox is made up of several essential components. This includes the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.
In addition to keeping the firebox and its lining in good shape It's also important to clean your fireplace regularly. Since it's always exposed to high temperatures, the interior will be matted with soot and ash, which needs to be cleaned out. To do this, you can use a wire brush or a scraper to get rid of the caked on ash and soot.
It's also a great idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure longevity and durability. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They also have an even heat distribution that will last longer.
In the end you can add a bit of visual interest to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some homeowners also opt to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Be certain that the glass you're using for your fireplace is UL approved for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any accessories and decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy method to add warmth and aesthetics to a space. These fireplace accessories come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it's easy to find one that will fit your home. Some come with remotes so you can control the flames from any place in the house. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, which makes them a great option for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are many kinds of burners, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but all provide a variety of advantages for your home. Certain are more secure than others, and a few can be used without or with a chimney. Whatever type of burner you select be sure to adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance to the laws of your state and local authorities.
While burning wood is the most traditional method of enjoying a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot produced from burning wood can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol fires, on the other hand, produce only water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more eco-friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be helpful in the event of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall and slam down under-hanging power lines. If the electricity in your home goes out, you can use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flue
The flue is an inside tunnel of a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace out of your house. It is also an important component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduces smoke.
The draft action of the flue stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead they are taken out to cool. This controlled venting is what prevents carbon monoxide.
The chimney should be inspected regularly for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the read more 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 drill and masking tape and a utility knife for removing any creosote or soot stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. This also prevents wind or rain from getting into the fireplace and damaging your wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles, and at the top of the fireplace, can be opened or closed by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue clear when the fire is burning. However it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. This can help you save energy costs.