Fireplace: What Nobody Is Talking About
Fireplace: What Nobody Is Talking About
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add beauty and value to the property.
Homeowners can complete most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace needs facelifts or basic repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible floor to the wood stove or fireplace. It could be a complete elevated area or just the foundation on which the fireplace sits. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, raised mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the design of the fireplace and its accessories. You should consult your local authority for more information.
Hearths are usually made of stone, brick or cement, and are a focal point of any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other supplies.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as the central to early human life. Many believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food, and protection.
Although a hearth offers many advantages, it can also cause serious health issues when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). At high levels, it may cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were traditionally constructed out of stone, but they are now commonly made of concrete or brick and can be in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material of a hearth can significantly affect its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and enhances the ambience of the room. It is not just visually appealing, but also practical because it keeps combustibles out from the fire and also deflects heat back into the space. It can also serve as a shelf for household items like mirrors or paintings.
Depending on the kind of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Some are non-combustible while others must meet the national and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from combustible objects.
Some popular choices for surrounds include stone, brick and concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give an elegant look that complements the style of the house.
Plaster is a different option. This material is made from an amalgamation of sand cement and water and can be crafted to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for example can go well with a Mission style home.
Tile is the best option for a surround. It comes in a myriad of patterns and colors. It can be used to accent the surrounding area, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create an impressive focal. Tile is a great option for homes that have modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when they enter a living space. It is important to select an item that sets the tone for your home and to enhance the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind a fireplace 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 burn wood, but some can also use gas like propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the area where the combustion takes place and should be maintained in order to ensure security and effectiveness. The firebox is comprised of a number of important parts. These include the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
In addition to maintaining the firebox and its interior in good condition It is essential to clean your fireplace frequently. Since it's constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be covered in soot and ash which need to be removed. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to remove the ash and soot that has been caked on.
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 types of metals can resist corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer an even heat distribution which will last longer.
Additionally you can add some visual appeal to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Just be sure that the glass you're using for your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This is not just the fireplace itself but also the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a great way to add warmth and style to a space. They are available in many different shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find one that will fit your home. Some come with remotes so you can control flames from any place in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors or outdoors, since they are safe.
There are a variety of burners, each with their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all have a variety of advantages. Some are safer than other, and some work with or without chimneys. No matter what kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines included in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.
While burning wood is the traditional way to enjoy an open flame, it's not always the most practical. The smoke and soot produced from burning wood can be dangerous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.
A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, leading them to fall, and power lines below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm in the event that the power is cut off in your home. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is a tunnel inside a chimney which carries gases and smoke out of the home. It's also a key element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue creates a wind that draws air into the fire. This allows the fuel to burn completely and reduces smoke.
The flue's draft stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. It is this controlled venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check your chimney regularly for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe is a stainless 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 fitted with a brick bit and masking tape are all required to get rid of any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace will help prevent the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also prevents rain or wind gusts from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper, located near Fireplace the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open when there is a fire burning. However it should be shut whenever the fireplace is not in use. This will help you save energy costs.