What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes that provide warmth and comfort all day and at night. They also enhance the value and appeal of the interior of your home.

Homeowners can tackle most of these tasks, whether your fireplace requires a facelift or some simple repairs. Certain tasks that require gas are best left to the professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a non-combustible surface that surrounds a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It may be a whole elevated area or just the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The word "hearth" is used to describe all of the components of the fireplace, such as the firebox, the floor that is raised as well as the mantel and chimney, is commonly used. However, it is important to note that there are strict fire safety regulations about how a fireplace and its components should be built, so please contact your local authority for more details.

Hearths are generally constructed from brick, stone or cement and can be the focal point of any room. They are designed to form a barrier between the fire and the flooring. They also protect against accidental fires triggered by stray logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other equipment.

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. Many believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and even protection.

While a hearth has many benefits, it can cause serious health problems when it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). In high doses, it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Traditionally, hearths were constructed of rock but they are nowadays constructed of concrete or brick and can be in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that are only covering the the fireplace opening. The material used in a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround (also known as a mantel) is the frame that is placed above the hearth, and is a part of the ambiance of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it shields flammable materials from the hearth and disperses heat from the space. It can also be used as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Some are not combustible and others need to meet the national and local fire codes for clearance distances from the combustible object.

The most popular options for surrounds include concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also feature plinths or cornices. These elements can give your home a more sophisticated design that matches the style.

Plaster is a different option. It can be created by mixing cement and sand, then decorated to match any design. For instance, a textured surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.

The final option for a fireplace surround is tile. Tiles come in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the wall, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create an impressive focal. Tile is an excellent choice for homes in a contemporary style.

The surround is one of the first things people notice upon entering a space. For this reason, it is essential to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your room and enhance your home's value.

The Firebox

The firebox is the area behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be built and maintained. The firebox is typically enclosed by a chimney to allow the smoke to escape. These traditional structures typically use wood, however some may also utilize gas like propane or natural gas.

Whatever fuel you are using the firebox is where the combustion takes place and needs to be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all vital components of the firebox to ensure the proper operation.

It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good shape and its liner. Because it is constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the inside will be soiled with soot and ash that need to be removed. To do this, you can make use of a wire brush or scraper to get rid of 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 durability and long-term use. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't get rusty. They also offer 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 people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Just be certain that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you add to it.

The Burner

Burners are an easy method to add warmth and aesthetics to a space. They are available in many different sizes and shapes and shapes, making it easy to find one that will fit your home. Some even come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. They are also safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.

There are many types of burners. Each one has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others ones, and some operate with chimneys or without. Regardless of which kind of burner you pick, make sure to adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all local and state laws.

While burning wood is the traditional method of enjoying an open flame, it's not always the most practical. In addition to being messy and inconvenient it also produces smoke and soot it creates can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol fires are on the other hand produce just water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more sustainable.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the event of an outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice can build up on trees, which can cause them to fall and knock down under-hanging power lines. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm when the power goes out in your home. This is a major plus for those who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is a passageway inside the chimney, which is used to transport smoke and gases out of the home. It's also a key element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue generates a wind which draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

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

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

Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace will help prevent the conditioned air inside from escape. It also prevents wind or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace, wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper can be closed and opened by using a latch or a handle. It is located on the uppermost part of your fireplace close to the flue pipe or tile. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open when a fire is burning. However it should be shut when the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save money Fireplaces And Stoves UK on your energy bills.