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Robles Akhtar posted an update 8 months, 3 weeks ago
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes they provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and night. They also enhance the value and appeal of the home.
Homeowners can tackle many of these projects, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or simple repairs. However, certain tasks that require gas service should be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible flooring of a wood stove or fireplace. It could be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The term “hearth”, which is used to describe all the components of the fireplace, such as the firebox, the raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney, is commonly used. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. You should consult your local governing authority for more details.
They can be made of stone, bricks or cement. They make a great focal point for any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other supplies.
Archaeological research has revealed that hearths were important to early human life. Many believe that hearths provided food, light, warmth, and protection.
Although a hearth can provide many benefits, it can cause serious health problems when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation can increase blood nitrogen levels, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. In high doses it can cause dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness.
Traditionally, hearths were built out of rock, however they are nowadays constructed of brick or concrete and come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that cover the entire wall and others are smaller and purely decorative elements that cover the fireplace’s opening. The material used to make the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance and cost as well as the resistance to heat.
The Surround
A fireplace surround , also referred to as a “mantel”, is the frame that sits above the hearth which enhances the ambience of a room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and deflects heat into the room. It can also be used as a shelf to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the type of fireplace, there are several alternatives for the surround. Some are not combustible and others need to meet national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from fire-prone objects.
Some popular choices for surrounds include concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These details can create an elegant appearance that complements the style of the home.
Another option is to use plaster. It is created by mixing cement and sand, and finished to match any style of architecture. For instance, a textured surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.
Tile is the final option for a surround. It is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used to accent the surrounding area or extended across the entire wall to create an impressive focal point. Tile is also a good option for homes with a contemporary or modern style.
The surround is among the first things people notice when they enter a living space. It is essential to select an item that sets the tone for your home and also to enhance the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace’s opening where a fire may be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney that allows the smoke to escape. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas, such as natural gas or propane.
The firebox is where combustion occurs and should be maintained in order to ensure safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital elements of the firebox that must be in place for efficient operation.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good shape and the liner. Since it’s constantly exposed to high temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash which need to be cleared. To accomplish this, make use of wire brushes or a scraper to take off the caked-on ash and soot.
It’s also a good idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure longevity and durability. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and won’t be rusty. They also provide more even heat distribution and last longer.
In the end you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also choose to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Just be sure that the glass you’re using for your fireplace is UL rated for safety. 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 heat and aesthetics to any room. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find the perfect burner for your home. Some come with remotes, so you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors and outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many different types of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, but they all offer a range of advantages. Some are safer than other ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. Whatever type of burner you choose ensure that you follow the instructions in the user’s manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.
While burning wood is the traditional method of enjoying an open flame, it’s not always the most practical. Besides the fact that it’s messy and uninspiring, the smoke and soot it produces can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall, and even knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If the electricity in your house goes out, you can use a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a major plus for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a tunnel inside the chimney, which is used to transport smoke and gases out of the house. It is an essential element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn, as well as reducing smoke.
The draft action of the flue stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead, they are carried out to cool. It is this controlled venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Your chimney needs to be regularly inspected for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush and an electric drill fitted using a masonry drill, as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any creosote or sooty residue that is stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Keeping the flue closed when you’re not using your fireplace can help keep conditioned indoor air from escaping. It also helps prevent winds or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper can be shut and opened by using a latch or a handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace, near the flue pipe or tile. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace’s flue open while there is a fire burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. This can help you save money on your energy bills.