What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort all day long and into the night. They also add value and beauty to the interior of your home.

Homeowners can complete some of these projects, whether your fireplace requires facelifts or easy repairs. However, certain tasks that require gas service should be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is the noncombustible flooring of the wood stove or fireplace. It can be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so contact your local authority for more information.

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

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.

A hearth could cause serious health issues if it's not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation raises the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.

Hearths used to be made of stone, but are now more often made of 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 cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material used to make the hearth can have a huge impact on its appearance, cost, and the resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also called a mantel) is the frame that sits above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of a room. It's not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical as it keeps combustibles away from the fire and also deflects heat back into the space. It can also be used as an extra shelf for household items like mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must comply with local and federal fire codes regarding clearance distances from combustible objects.

Popular choices for the surround are stone, brick or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds can also feature cornices or plinths. These features can give your home a more refined design that matches the style.

Plaster is another alternative. It is made with a mixture of sand and cement, and it is then finished to match any design. A plaster surround, for example can go well with a Mission style home.

Tile is the last choice for a wall. This material is available in a myriad of patterns and colors. It can be used as an accent to the surround or extended over the whole wall for an impressive focal feature. Tile is a great option for homes with modern or contemporary styles.

The surround is among the first things guests notice upon entering a space. It is essential to select an item that sets the tone for your home and also to enhance the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the fireplace opening, where a fire can be constructed and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. These traditional structures usually burn wood, however some can also use gas, such as propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you are using the firebox is the place the place where combustion occurs and must be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are the most important components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.

It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and its lining. The interior of your fireplace will be matted by dust and soot because of its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can use a scraper or a wirebrush to clean the ash and soot that has been caked on.

To ensure durability and longevity, it's an excellent idea to line the interior of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant fire places to corrosion and will not rust. They also offer more even heat distribution and will last longer.

You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by adding decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Ensure that the fireplace you choose to use is UL rated. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you put on it.

The Burner

Burners are a simple way to add warmth and aesthetics to a space. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of sizes and shapes which makes it easy to locate the ideal burner for your home. Some have remotes, so you can control flames from any place in the house. Fire burners are safe to use, making them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are a variety of burners, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and some work with or without chimneys. Regardless of which type of burner you select, make sure to adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance to the laws of your state and local authorities.

While burning wood is the most traditional way to enjoy a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot created by burning wood could be hazardous to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more eco-friendly.

Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can build up on trees, which may cause them to fall and slam down power lines hanging from the ceiling. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm in the event that the electricity 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 within the chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates a wind that draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The draft action of the flue stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. This controlled venting keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.

Your chimney needs to be checked regularly to check for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a brush made of metal and a drill using a masonry drill as well as masking tape and a utility knife for removing any soot or creosote stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.

The flue should be kept closed when you aren't using your fireplace helps keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. It also prevents winds or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.

The damper, which is located at 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 a fireplace's flue open when the fire is burning. However it should be closed when the fireplace isn't being used. This will save you money on your energy bills.