Fireplace: What's New? No One Is Talking About

What Are Fireplace Accessories?

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

Homeowners can tackle most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or 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 the wood stove or fireplace. It could be a raised area or simply the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The term "hearth", which is used to describe all of the components of a fireplace, including the firebox, the floor that is raised as well as the mantel and chimney, is often used. However, it is important to remember that there are specific fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be built, so please check with your local governing body for more details.

Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement and can be an important focal point in any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers or logs. They also offer a place to store fireplace tools, wood and other supplies.

Archaeological studies have revealed that hearths were crucial to the early human era. It is widely believed that they provided food, protection, light and warmth.

A hearth can cause serious health problems if it's not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases blood nitrogen levels which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness when in high concentrations.

Hearths were once made of stone however, they are now often made of concrete or brick. They are available in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking Wooden Fireplaces have hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that are only covering the area of the freestanding fireplace opening. The material used in the construction of a hearth has a great impact on its appearance, cost, and the resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also called mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and adds to the ambiance of a room. It is not just visually appealing, but also practical because it keeps combustibles out from the flame and redirects heat back into the space. It can also be used as an area to store household items like mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are several alternatives for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others need to meet local and national standards for clearance distances from fire-prone objects.

Popular choices for the surround are stone, brick or concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also feature cornices or plinths. These details can give a home an elegant design that matches the style.

Plaster is a different option. It is a mix of sand, cement and water. It can be crafted to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for example can be a perfect match for the look of a Mission style home.

Tile is the final option for a wall. This material is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It can be used as an accent to the surround, or spread across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great option for homes with contemporary styles.

The surround is among the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. It is crucial to choose an item that sets the mood for your space and also to increase the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is the area behind the fireplace's opening where a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is typically enclosed by a chimney, allowing smoke to escape. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, but some also burn gas like natural gas or propane.

The firebox is the place where combustion occurs and should be maintained in order to ensure safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all important components of the firebox to ensure proper operation.

It is essential to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes keeping the firebox in good shape and the liner. Since it's constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be covered in soot and ash which need to be cleared. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that has been clogged up.

To ensure durability and longevity it's an excellent idea to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These types of metals can resist corrosion and will not rust. They also offer an even heat distribution, which will last longer.

Finally, you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern fireplace glass instead. Make sure that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace, as along with any accessories or decorations you add to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and beauty to any room. They come in various shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the ideal one 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 and outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many kinds of burners, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and can be used with or without chimneys. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick be sure to adhere to the directions in the user's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and in compliance with all state and local regulations.

While burning wood is the traditional method of enjoying the flame of a fireplace, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot created from burning wood can be dangerous to your family and you. Ethanol fires are, however, produce only CO2 and water vapor which is more sustainable.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of a power outage. In winter, trees be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines below. If the power supply in your home goes out it is possible to use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a passageway inside a chimney which carries gases and smoke out of the house. It's also an essential component of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates a breeze which draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely 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 pushed outside to cool. This controlled venting stops carbon monoxide from escaping.

Your chimney must be checked regularly for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush, the use of a drill using a masonry tool and masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or sooty residue that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.

The flue should be kept closed when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also helps prevent wind or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace wood fireplace stove or Electric Fireplace gas furnace.

The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace is able to be closed or opened via a latch or handle. It is designed to keep the flue open while there is a fire burning however it should be closed when not in use to help lower your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.