What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add value and beauty to the house.

Homeowners can take on most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or easy repairs. Certain tasks that require gas must be left to professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a noncombustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term “hearth”, which is used to describe all the components of a fireplace, including the firebox, the floor that is raised, the mantel and the chimney, is commonly used. However, it is important to note that there are very specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its accessories should be built, so please check with your local governing body for more details.

They can be made from bricks, stone or cement. They make a great focal point for any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring and protect against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also provide a space for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.

Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as central to early human existence. It is widely believed that they provided light, food, protection and warmth.

A hearth could cause serious health issues if it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases blood nitrogen levels which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. In high doses it can cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

Hearths were once made of rock but they are now often made of concrete or brick. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that are able to cover the entire wall while others are smaller and purely decorative elements that only cover the fireplace’s opening. The material of a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and adds to the ambience of the room. Besides its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element since it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat into the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet local and national standards for clearance distances from fire-prone objects.

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

Plaster is another alternative. It is a mixture of sand, cement, and water. It can be finished to match any style of architecture. For instance, a plaster surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.

The final option for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a variety of designs and colors. It can be used to accent the wall, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create an impressive focal. Tile is a great option for homes that have a contemporary or modern style.

The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a living room. It is crucial to choose an item that will set the tone for your home and increase the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is the area behind the fireplace’s opening in which a fire can be built and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. Traditional structures usually burn wood, but some can also use gas like propane or natural gas.

The firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be maintained in a way that ensures security and effectiveness. The hearth’s grate along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are all important components of the firebox to ensure proper operation.

In addition to keeping the firebox and its liner in good shape, it’s important to clean your fireplace frequently. The inside of the 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 caked on.

It’s also a great idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox for longevity and durability. These types of metals can resist corrosion and won’t corrosion. They also have an even heat distribution, which will last longer.

In the end you can add a bit of visual interest to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you choose to use is UL certified. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you’ll add to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any space. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find one that fits your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, so you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many kinds of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, but they all have a myriad of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and can be used with or without chimneys. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick be sure to follow the instructions in the user’s manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance to the laws of your state and local authorities.

Wood burning is a classic method of enjoying your fireplace, however it’s not always the most practical. Apart from the fact that it’s a messy, inconvenient process as well as the smoke and soot it creates can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol fires are, however, produce only CO2 and water vapor – which is much more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also be helpful in the case of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down under-hanging power lines. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm if 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 tunnel inside the chimney, which is used to transport smoke and gases out of the house. wood burner fireplace is also an important element for a safe, efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.

The draft action of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead they are taken outside to cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.

Check your chimney regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill with brick bits and masking tape are required to remove any tarnish or soot that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Keeping the flue closed when you aren’t using your fireplace will help prevent the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also prevents wind 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 with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace’s flue clear when the fire is burning. However it should be shut whenever the fireplace is not in use. This will save you money on your energy bills.