What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also provide beauty and value to the house.

Homeowners can take on most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace requires a facelift or some simple repairs. Certain jobs requiring gas services should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is the noncombustible flooring for an open wood stove or fireplace. It can 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, the mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless crucial to keep in mind that there are very specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please check with your local governing body for more information.

They can be made of cement, bricks, or stone. They are a fantastic focal feature for any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring and protect against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also provide a space to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological research has revealed that hearths were important to early human life. Many people believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and security.

While a hearth has numerous benefits, it could also trigger serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises the levels of nitrogen in blood, which prevents the red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness at high levels.

Hearths used to be made of rock but they are now commonly made from brick or concrete. They can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, more decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material used in the construction of the hearth can have a huge impact on its appearance and cost as well as the resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth that adds to the ambience of the room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and reflects heat away from the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items like mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type of fireplace, there are several materials that can be used for the surround. Some surrounds are non-combustible, while others must comply with the fire codes of the local and federal government regarding clearance distances away from combustible objects.

The most popular choices for surrounds are brick, stone, or concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give an elegant look that complements the style of the house.

Another option is to use plaster. This material can be made from a mix of cement and sand, then finished to match any design. For instance, a textured surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style home.

The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to enhance the wall or extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal. Tile is an excellent option for homes that have modern style.

The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living room. This is why it is important to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and add to your home's value.

The Firebox

The firebox is the space behind a fireplace opening where a fire can be built and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, however some can also burn gas, such as natural gas or propane.

The firebox is the area where the combustion takes place and must be maintained properly for security and efficiency. The firebox is made up of several essential components. These include the grate as well as the fire poker and the air damper.

It is important to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good condition and its liner. The inside of the fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the soot and ash that has been clogged up.

For durability and long-term longevity It's an excellent idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not be rusty. They'll also provide an even heat distribution, which will last longer.

You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people also choose to make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Just be certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you put on it.

The Burner

Burners are a common way to add warmth and beauty to any room. These fireplace accessories are available in various sizes and shapes, making it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many kinds of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages to your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and a few can be used without or with a chimney. No matter what kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.

While burning wood is the most traditional method of enjoying a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot generated by burning wood could be dangerous to your family and you. Ethanol burners create water vapor and very low levels of CO2, which is more eco-friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, trees be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, causing them to fall, and power lines below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a huge benefit for those who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an inside tunnel in the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace away from your home. It is an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.

The draft action of the flue keeps the hot gases emitted from the fire from escaping into your home. Instead, they are carried outside to cool. This regulated venting is what stops carbon monoxide from escaping.

The chimney should be checked regularly 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 metal brush, the use of a drill with a masonry bit 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.

Keeping the flue closed when you aren't using your fireplace will help prevent the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops wind or rain from getting into the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper can be closed and opened 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 shut when not in use to help reduce your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.