What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add value and beauty to the interior of your home.

If your tabletop fireplace requires to be repainted or just simple repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible flooring of a fireplace or wood stove. It could be a elevated area or simply the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, including the firebox, the floor and mantel as well as the chimney. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are very specific fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its accessories should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.

They can be made from stone, bricks or cement. They are a fantastic focal point for any room. They are designed to create an enclosure between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also offer a place for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological research has revealed the importance of hearths as central to early human life. Many believe that hearths supplied warmth, light, food, and protection.

A hearth can cause serious health issues when it isn't properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in the blood which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). In high doses, it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Hearths were originally constructed from rock but they are now commonly made from concrete or brick. They can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the whole wall while others are smaller, purely decorative features that are only covering the the fireplace opening. The material used to construct the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance and cost as well as heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and enhances the ambiance of a room. It is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional since it shields combustibles from the fire and deflects heat back to the space. It can also serve as an area to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the type of fireplace, there are several material options for the surround. Some are not combustible and others need to meet national and local fire codes for clearance distances from the combustible object.

Some popular choices for the surround include stone, brick and concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features like bevels or bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These elements can give a more refined appearance that is in keeping with the style of the house.

Plaster is a different option. It is made with a mixture of cement and sand, and it is then finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for example, can complement a Mission style house.

The final option for the fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround, or spread over the whole wall for a dramatic focal feature. It is a fantastic option for homes with a contemporary style.

The surround is among the first things that guests see upon entering a space. It is for this reason that it is important to choose an item that sets the tone of your space and enhance the value of your home.

The Firebox

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

No matter what kind of fuel you use the firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is comprised of a number of important parts. They include the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.

In addition to maintaining the firebox and its liner in good shape, it's important to clean out your fireplace frequently. The interior of your fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that has been clogged up.

It's also a good idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox to ensure long-term durability and longevity. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer more even heat distribution and last longer.

Finally you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also choose to make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Make sure that the fireplace you choose to use is UL rated. This includes not only the fireplace itself but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a great method to add warmth and aesthetics to a space. They are available in many different dimensions and shapes and shapes, making it easy to find one that fits your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control the flames from any place in the house. They are also safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.

There are a variety of burners, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, however all offer a range of advantages for your home. Some are safer than other ones, and some operate with or without chimneys. No matter what type of burner you select ensure that you adhere to the directions in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.

Wood burning is a classic way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always the most efficient. Besides the fact that it's messy and inconvenient, the smoke and soot that it releases can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor and very little CO2, which is more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the case of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall and slam down power lines that hang below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm when the power is out in your home. 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 smoke and gases out of the house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to burn fully and reducing smoke.

The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gas produced by the fire from blowing back into your home and instead carrying them out to the outside where they can cool. It is this controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your chimney must be inspected regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits, and masking tape are needed to remove any soot or tarnish that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace to stop conditioned 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, located near the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace, can be shut or opened by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open even when the fire is burning however, it should be closed when not in use to help reduce your energy costs and keep animals and precipitation from your fireplace stove.