What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and night. They also add beauty and value to the property.

If your fireplace requires to be repainted or just basic repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a non-combustible surface that is used to surround the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is commonly used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless crucial to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so contact your local authority for more information.

They can be made from stone, bricks or cement. They make a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or even logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools wood, tools, and other items.

Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as central to early human life. Many people believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and even protection.

Although a hearth offers many benefits, it can also trigger serious health issues in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). At high levels it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Traditionally, hearths were built out of rock, however they are now commonly made out of brick or concrete and come in various sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces shop have hearths that span the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that only cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to build a fireplace can greatly influence its appearance, price and heat resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also called mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a practical element as it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and deflects heat into the room. It also serves as an extra shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type of fireplace, there are various alternatives for the surround. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others must be in compliance with national and local fire codes for clearance distances from combustible objects.

Some of the most popular choices for the surround include concrete, brick, and stone. Some stone surrounds have decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may also feature cornices or plinths. These details can give your home a more refined design that matches its style.

Another option is to use plaster. It can be made from a mix of cement and sand, then decorated to match any design. For instance, a textured surround can complement a Mission-style house.

Tile is the final option for a surround. It comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors. It can be used to accent the wall or extended across the entire wall to create a striking focal point. It is a fantastic choice for homes in contemporary styles.

The surround is one of the first things that guests see upon entering a space. It is for this reason that it is essential to choose a piece that will set the tone of your room and add to your home's value.

The Firebox

The firebox is the part behind a fireplace opening where a fire can be built and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, but some also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you choose to use the firebox is the location where the combustion takes place and needs to be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all important parts of the firebox for proper operation.

It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good order and the interior lining. Because it is constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be matted with soot and ash, which needs to be cleared. To do this, you can use a wire brush or a scraper to remove the caked-on soot and ash.

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 will not corrosion. They also have an even heat distribution that will last longer.

In the end you can add some visual interest to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Make sure the fireplace you choose to use is UL rated. This includes the fireplace as along with any accessories or decorations you put on it.

The Burner

Burners are a great way to add warmth and style to any space. These fireplace accessories come in many different dimensions and shapes, so it's easy to find one that will fit your home. Some are equipped with remotes so that you can control the flames from anywhere in the house. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, which makes them a great option for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are many types of burners. Each one has 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 ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick ensure that you follow the directions provided in the manual for the product. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with the laws of your state and local authorities.

The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, but it's not always convenient. In addition to being a messy, inconvenient process it also produces smoke and soot that it releases could be harmful for you and your family. ethanol fireplace burners create water vapor and very little CO2, which is more eco-friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be beneficial in the event of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall, and even knock down under-hanging power lines. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm when the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a major plus for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.

The flu

The flue is an inside tunnel in the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace away from your home. It's also an essential component of a safe and effective fire. A flue is a source of updraft, electric firesuite which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduces smoke.

The flue's draft prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are taken out to cool. This controlled venting is what stops carbon monoxide from escaping.

Regularly inspect your chimney for any leaks or blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney) must be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with a brick bit and masking tape are all required to get rid of any soot or tarnish that has been stuck on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.

Keeping the flue closed when you're not using your fireplace can help keep conditioned indoor air from escaping. This also prevents rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and damaging your gas or wood stove furnace.

The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and at the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open while the fire is burning, but it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy costs and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.