What Are Fireplace Accessories?
fireplaces (
Bookmarkfox.com) are central to many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also enhance the value and appeal of the home.
Homeowners can tackle most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or basic repairs. However, certain tasks that require gas service must be left to professionals with the proper training.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It can be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, including the firebox, the raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are strict fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its components should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.
They can be constructed from stone, bricks or cement. They are a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store
electric fireplace tools, wood, and other supplies.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth can provide many advantages, it can cause serious health problems if not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in the blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness at high levels.
Hearths used to be made of rock, but are now more commonly made from concrete or brick. They can come in many 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 in a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth and enhances the atmosphere of a room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it also serves as a useful element since it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and deflects heat away from the room. It can also be used as an area to store things like mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of
electric fireplace, there are several materials that can be used for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet local and federal fire codes in regards to clearance distances away from combustible objects.
The most popular options for surrounds include stone, brick and concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved using decorative features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These features can give a house an elegant appearance that is in harmony with the style.
Plaster is a different alternative. This material is made from a mix of sand, cement, and water. It can be crafted to match any style of architecture. For example, a plaster surround can complement a Mission-style home.
Tile is the final option for a surround. It comes in a variety of patterns and colors. It can be used to enhance the surrounding area, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. Tile is also a good option for homes that have modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is the first thing that guests see when they enter a room. For this reason, it is important to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and increase your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney that allows smoke to escape. Traditional structures usually use wood, however some may also utilize gas, such as propane or natural gas.
No matter what kind of fuel you are using the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be maintained for safety and effectiveness. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.
In addition to keeping the firebox and interior in good condition, it's important to clean your fireplace frequently. The interior of your fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To clean it, make use of a wire brush or a scraper to get rid of the caked-on soot and ash.
To ensure durability and longevity It's an excellent idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not get rusty. They also have an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you use is UL rated. This includes not only the fireplace, but any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular way to add heat and aesthetics to any space. These fireplace accessories are available in various sizes and shapes which makes it easy to locate the perfect burner for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, since they are safe.
There are a variety of burners. Each one has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, but all provide a variety of benefits for your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. No matter what kind of burner you pick, make sure to follow the directions provided in the manual for the product. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.
The burning of wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always the most efficient. In addition to being a messy, inconvenient process, the smoke and soot it creates can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand, produce only water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more environmentally friendly.
A fireplace can also be beneficial in the case of a power outage. In winter, trees may get weighed down by heavy snow and ice, leading them to fall, and power lines below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm when the electricity goes out in your home. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an internal tunnel of the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your
fireplace electric away from your house. It is an essential element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reducing smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue stops the hot gases produced by the fire from billowing back into your home, instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. It is this regulated venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.
Your chimney must be inspected 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. This includes a brush made of metal and a drill using a masonry tool and masking tape and an 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 conditioned air inside from escape. It also helps prevent wind or rain from getting into 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 at the top of the fireplace can be opened or closed with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open while there is a fire burning. However, it should be closed when the
fireplace electric is not being used. This can help you save money on your energy bills.
