What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are central to many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also provide beauty and value to the home.

If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects can often be completed by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services must be left to professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that surrounds a marble fireplace or wood-burning stove. It may be a whole elevated area or just the foundation where the fireplace is. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, the floor and mantel, as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are strict fire safety guidelines regarding how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please check with your local governing body for more details.

Hearths are typically constructed of brick, stone or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fireplace and the flooring. They also protect against accidental fires triggered by stray logs or embers. They also offer a place for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. Many believe that hearths were the source of warmth, light, food, and protection.

Although a hearth offers numerous benefits, it could also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation raises blood levels of nitrogen, which prevents the red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness in high levels.

Traditionally, hearths were built of rock but they are nowadays constructed of brick or concrete and can come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that cover the entire wall, while others are smaller and solely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and enhances the ambiance of a room. It is not only aesthetically appealing, but also practical as it keeps combustibles away from the fire and deflects heat back to the room. It can also serve as a shelf to display household items like mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from the combustible object.

Some of the most popular choices for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features like bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature cornices or plinths. These elements can give your home an elegant appearance that is in harmony with its style.

Another option is to use plaster. This material is made from a mix of sand, cement and water and can be finished to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for example, can complement a Mission style house.

Tile is the final option for a wall fireplace. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the surrounding area, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create an impressive focal. It is a fantastic option for homes with contemporary styles.

The surround is among the first things that guests see when entering a living space. It is crucial to choose an item that sets the tone for your space and to increase the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is an area behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be created and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, but some can also burn gas like natural gas or propane.

No matter what kind of fuel you choose to use the firebox is the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The firebox consists of a number of important parts. These include the grate as well as the fire poker and the air damper.

It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good order and its lining. The interior of the fireplace will be matted by soot and dust due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that has been caked on.

To ensure durability and longevity it's recommended to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They also offer 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 utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you use is UL approved. This includes not only the fireplace itself, but also any accessories and decorations you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are an easy way to add warmth and electric fireplaces beauty to your home. These fireplace accessories come in a variety of dimensions and shapes, so it's easy to find one that fits your home. Some come with remotes so you can control the flames from any location in the home. Fire burners are safe to use, which makes them a great option for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are many types of burners. Each one has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, but they all have a myriad of advantages. Some are safer than others, and can be used with or without a chimney. Whatever type of burner you select, make sure to adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in conformity with all local and state regulations.

Burning wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always efficient. The smoke and soot created by burning wood can be dangerous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol fires, on the other hand produce CO2 and water vapor which is a lot more sustainable.

A fireplace can also be beneficial in the case of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and slam down power lines hanging from the ceiling. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the power is cut off in your home. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a tunnel within the chimney, which is used to transport gases and smoke out of the home. It is an essential element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates a wind that draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The drafting of the flue prevents the hot gas produced by the fire from leaking back into your home, instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This regulated 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 middle of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits, and masking tape are required to get rid of any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the chimney's walls. flue pipe.

Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace can help keep the conditioned air inside from escape. This also prevents rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to your gas or wood stove furnace.

The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles and at the top of the fireplace can be shut or opened by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue open when there is a fire burning. However it should be shut when the fireplace electric is not being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.