What Are Fireplace Accessories?

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

Homeowners can take on many of these projects regardless of whether your tabletop fireplace requires a facelift or some simple repairs. Certain jobs that require gas service are best left to the professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It may be a whole elevated area or simply the foundation on which the fireplace sits. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace insert, including the firebox, raised floor and mantel and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are strict fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please consult your local governing body for more information.

They can be made of stone, bricks or cement. They are a fantastic focal point for any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They also provide a space for storing fireplace tools such as wood, tools and other equipment.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to the early human era. Many people believe that hearths supplied warmth, light, food, and protection.

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

Hearths were originally made of rock, but are now more often made of brick or concrete. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that are able to cover the entire wall and others are smaller and solely decorative elements that only cover the fireplace's opening. The material used to build a fireplace can significantly affect its appearance, price and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame that sits above the hearth that enhances the atmosphere of an area. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element since it shields flammable materials from the hearth and disperses heat away from the room. It can also serve as an extra shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type 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.

The most popular options for the surround include concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds are carved using decorative features like bevels or bolection moulding. They may also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give a more refined appearance that can complement the style of the house.

Plaster is another alternative. It can be made from a mix of sand and cement, and decorated to match any architectural design. For instance, a plaster surround can go well with a Mission style house.

Tile is the last choice for a surround. It is available in a myriad of patterns and colors. It can be used to accent the surround or be extended across the entire wall to create a striking focal. Tile is an excellent option for homes that have contemporary styles.

The surround is one of the first things people notice upon entering a space. It is crucial to choose an item that will set the tone for your home and to add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is the part behind a fireplace's opening where the fire can be created and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. These traditional structures usually use wood, however they can also burn gas like propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you choose to use the firebox is the place the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The grate in the hearth along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are the most important parts of the firebox for the proper operation.

It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good shape and its lining. Since it's constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be matted with soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. 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 a good idea to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not corrosion. They also offer an even heat distribution that will last longer.

Additionally, you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Make sure the fireplace you select is UL certified. This includes not only the fireplace itself but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any space. They are available in various shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control the flames from any place in the house. Fire burners can be used indoors and outdoors, since they are safe.

There are a variety of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, however they all provide a variety advantages to your home. Some are more secure than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. No matter which kind of burner you pick, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in conformity with all local and state regulations.

The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always practical. In addition to being messy and inconvenient, the smoke and soot it creates can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also be beneficial in the occasion of an outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can build up on trees, which could cause them to fall and slam down power lines that hang below. If the electricity is not working in your home and you need to find a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a major plus for those who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The flu

The flue is an internal tunnel of a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace to your house. It is also an essential element for a safe, efficient bioethanol fire. A flue creates a wind that pulls air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The flue's draft prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. It is this controlled venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.

Regularly inspect your chimney for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a brush made of metal and an electric Firesuite drill fitted with a masonry bit and masking tape and a utility knife for removing any creosote or soot that is stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.

Keeping the flue closed when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also stops wind or rain from entering the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace suites, 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 can be shut or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue clear when there is a fire burning. However, it should be closed when the fireplace isn't being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.