What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that offer warmth and comfort all day and night long. They also enhance the beauty and value of the property.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/6949/homcom-900w-1800w-freestanding-electric-fireplace-room-heater-w-adjustable-artificial-flame-tempered-glass-safe-home-warmth-retro-faux-fire-6949.jpg)Whether your fireplace needs to be repainted or just minor repairs, these tasks can often be completed by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for a fireplace or wood stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The word “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 commonly used. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are strict fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its accessories must 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 great focal point for any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires home-page] triggered by stray logs or embers. They also provide a space to store fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths played a significant role in the early human era. Many believe that hearths supplied food, light, warmth and security.
A hearth can cause serious health problems if it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises blood levels of nitrogen which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness when in high levels.
Traditionally, hearths were built out of rock, however they are now made of brick or concrete and can be in different shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that are only covering the the fireplace opening. The material of a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a “mantel” is the frame over the hearth that adds to the ambience of an area. Besides its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and deflects heat from the space. It also serves as a shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.
There are different options depending on the size and type of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, while others must comply with federal and local fire codes in regards to clearance distances away from items that are combustible.
The most popular options for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These features can give a house a more sophisticated design that matches the style.
Another option is plaster. It is a mixture of sand, cement and water and can be finished to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for example, can complement a Mission style home.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/2044/3226/klarstein-bergamo-electric-fireplace-electric-fire-electric-fire-place-2-heating-levels-thermostat-realistic-flame-illusion-independent-led-flame-effect-with-resin-logs-granite-grey-3226.jpg)The final option for a marble fireplace surround is tile. This material is available in a variety of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the wall, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create a striking focal point. Tile is a great choice for homes with a contemporary or modern fireplace style.
The surround is among the first things people notice when they enter a living space. It is for this reason that it is essential to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is usually covered by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. These traditional structures typically burn wood, however some can also use gas, such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be maintained properly for safety and effectiveness. The hearth's grate, a fire poker and an air damper are all important components of the firebox to ensure proper operation.
In addition to keeping the firebox and liner in good shape, it's important to clean your fireplace regularly. The interior of your fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust because of its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to get rid of the ash and soot that has been clogged up.
It's also a good idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox for long-term durability and longevity. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer more even heat distribution and last longer.
You can also make your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Ensure that the electric fireplace you use is UL certified. This includes the fireplace as along with any accessories or decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular way to add warmth and beauty to any space. They come in various sizes and shapes, making it easy to find the ideal one for your home. Some even come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. They are also safe to use, making them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor areas.
There are many different types of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, but they all have a variety of benefits. Some are safer than other, and some work with or without chimneys. No matter which 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 compliance to all state and local laws.
While burning wood is the most traditional way to enjoy the flame of a fireplace, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot created by burning wood can be hazardous to your family and you. Ethanol fires, on the other hand, produce only water vapor and minimal CO2 which is a lot more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can build up on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If the power is not working in your home, you can use the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flue
The flue is an inside tunnel inside the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace out of your home. It is also an important element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduce smoke.
The drafting action of the flue prevents the hot gases emitted by the fire from blowing back into your home, instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting is what keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.
Your chimney needs to be inspected regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush and a drill using a masonry drill as well as masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or sooty residue stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace can help keep the conditioned air inside from escape. This also stops rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and damaging 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 opened or closed by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open when the fire is burning. However, it should be closed when the fireplace isn't in use. This will save you energy costs.