What Are Fireplace Accessories?

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

Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or minor repairs, these tasks can often be completed by homeowners. Certain jobs that require gas service should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for a wood stove or fireplace. It can be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is commonly used to describe the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, the raised mantel and floor as well as the chimney. However, it is important to note that there are strict fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so check with your local governing body for more details.

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

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths played a significant role in the early human era. Many believe that hearths were the source of warmth, light, food and even protection.

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

Hearths used to be constructed from rock but they are now commonly made from brick or concrete. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that completely cover the wall, while others are smaller and purely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. 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 sits above the hearth which enhances the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a practical element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and deflects heat into the space. It also serves as a shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Depending on the type of fireplace, there are several materials that can be used for the surround. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others need to meet national and local fire codes for clearance distances from the combustible object.

Popular choices for the surround are brick, stone, or concrete. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These details can create a more refined appearance that can complement the style of the house.

Another option is to use plaster. It is created by mixing cement and sand, then decorated to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for example can go well with a Mission style home.

The last popular choice for the fireplace surround is tile. It is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surround, or it can be extended over the entire wall to create an impressive focal. Tile is a great option for homes with modern style.

The surround is one of the first things guests notice when entering a living space. It is essential to select an item that sets the mood for your space and to add value to your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the fireplace's opening in which a fire can be built and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney, allowing smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas, such as natural gas or propane.

The firebox is where combustion occurs and should be maintained in order to ensure security and efficiency. The hearth's grate, a fire poker and an air damper are all vital elements of the firebox that must be in place for efficient operation.

It is important to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good shape and the lining. Since it's constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be matted with soot and ash, which needs to be removed. You can make use of a scraper or 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 corrosion. They'll also provide an even heat distribution which will last longer.

You can also make your fireplace by using decorative ethonal fire logs and lava stones. Some homeowners also opt to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Make sure that the fireplace you use is UL certified. This includes the fireplace, as along with any accessories or decorations you'll add to it.

The Burner

Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any room. They come in various shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control the flames from anywhere in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors or outdoors, since they are safe.

There are a variety of burners, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all have a variety of advantages. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and a few can be used with or without a chimney. No matter which kind of burner you pick, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all local and state regulations.

While burning wood is the most popular method of enjoying a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. Apart from the fact that it's a messy, inconvenient process it also produces smoke and soot it produces can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more sustainable.

A fireplace can also be helpful in the case of a power outage. During winter, heavy 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 if the electricity is out in your home. This is an important benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.

The flu

The flue is a tunnel within the chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the home. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.

The draft action of the flue keeps the hot gases emitted by the fire from venting into your home. Instead they are pushed out to cool. It is this regulated venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.

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

Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace to prevent conditioned air from escaping. It also helps prevent wind or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace wood stove, or gas furnace.

The damper can be shut and opened with a latch or handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace near the flue tile or pipe. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open while the fire is burning. However it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. This will save you energy costs.