7 Simple Secrets To Totally Rocking Your Fireplace
7 Simple Secrets To Totally Rocking Your Fireplace
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort all day and night long. They also enhance the beauty and value of the home.
Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or minor repairs, these tasks are often completed by homeowners. Certain tasks that require gas should be left to experts.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that is used to surround a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is commonly used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace, including the firebox, raised mantel and floor and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its components should be built, so please consult your local governing body for more details.
Hearths are typically constructed from brick, stone or cement. They can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They also provide a space to store fireplace tools, wood and other supplies.
Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as the central to early human existence. It is widely believed that they supplied food, protection, light and warmth.
While a hearth has many advantages, it can also trigger serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation can increase nitrogen levels in blood, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. At high levels it can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were once made of rock but they are now commonly made from concrete or brick. They can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that cover the entire wall and others are smaller and solely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in the construction of the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance, cost, and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and adds to the atmosphere of a room. It is not just visually appealing, but also practical because it keeps combustibles out from the fire and deflects heat back to the room. It can also be used as an area to display household items, such as 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, and others must be in compliance with federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances from combustible items.
The most popular options for surrounds are brick, stone or concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give an elegant appearance that complements the style of the house.
Another option is to use plaster. This material can be made from a mix of sand and cement, and decorated to match any design. For instance, a textured surround can complement a Mission-style home.
Tile is the final option for a wall. It is available in a wide variety of patterns and colors. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or spread across the entire wall for an eye-catching focal point. It is a fantastic choice for homes in modern style.
The surround is the first thing people notice when they enter a room. This is why it is important to choose a piece that will set the tone click here for your space and enhance your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening where a fire can be created and maintained. The firebox is usually enclosed by a chimney to allow the smoke to escape. Traditional structures usually burn wood, however they can also burn gas, such as propane or natural gas.
Regardless of what type of fuel you are using, the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and needs to be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The hearth's grate along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are the most important parts of the firebox for efficient operation.
It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good order and its lining. The interior of your fireplace will be matted by dust and soot due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to get rid of the ash and soot that has been caked on.
It's also a great idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox to ensure long-term durability and longevity. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't get rusty. They will also provide a more even heat distribution and last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Make sure that the fireplace you use is UL rated. This includes not only the fireplace itself but also any accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add warmth and style to any room. These fireplace accessories come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it's easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control flames from any location in the home. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, which makes them an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but all provide a variety of benefits for your home. Some are safer than others, and some can be used without or with a chimney. Whatever type of burner you choose ensure that you follow the directions provided in the user's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with the laws of your state and local authorities.
Burning wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always practical. In addition to being messy and inconvenient it also produces smoke and soot it creates could be harmful for you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and very little CO2, which is more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of a power outage. In winter, trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to drop below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the power goes out in your home. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a tunnel within a chimney which carries gases and smoke out of the house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and effective fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.
The drafting of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from blowing back into your home, instead carrying them outside, where they can cool. This controlled venting is what stops carbon monoxide from escaping.
Your chimney must be inspected regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, needs to be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush and an electric drill fitted using a masonry tool as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any soot or creosote stuck to the flue's walls. pipe.
Close the flue when not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. It also prevents rain or wind gusts from getting into the chimney and damaging your fireplace, 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, is able to be closed or opened by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open while the fire is burning, but it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.