What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and Wooden Fireplaces comfort throughout the day long and into the night. They also enhance the value and appeal of the home.

Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or simple repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service must be left to trained professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is the non-combustible floor to the fireplace or wood stove. It could be a complete elevated area or just the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace including the firebox, the mantel and floor as well as the chimney. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. You should consult your local authority for further information.

Hearths are usually made of stone, brick or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to create an enclosure between the fire and the flooring. They also protect against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other equipment.

Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as central to early human existence. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, security, and warmth.

A hearth could be a source of serious health problems if it is not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. At high levels, it can cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

Hearths were once made of stone, but are now more commonly made from concrete or brick. They come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking wooden fireplaces have hearths that span the entire wall, while others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the the fireplace opening. The material used to make the hearth can have a huge impact on its appearance and cost as well as resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame over the hearth which enhances the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element since it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and reflects heat from the space. It can also be used as an extra shelf for household items such as mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of materials that can be used for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet federal and local fire codes regarding clearance distances away from combustible objects.

The most popular options for surrounds are stone, brick or concrete. Some stone surrounds are carved using decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may include plinths or cornices. These features can give a home an elegir to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Ensure that the fireplace you select is UL approved. This includes not only the fireplace, but any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are a great method to add warmth and style to a space. These fireplace accessories come in many different sizes and shapes and shapes, making it easy to find one that will fit your home. Some even come with remotes so that you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, making them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor spaces.

There are many kinds of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, however they all provide a variety advantages to 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 be sure to follow the directions provided in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all local and state laws.

While burning wood fireplaces is the most popular method of enjoying an open flame, it's not always the most practical. In addition to being a messy, inconvenient process, the smoke and soot it creates can be unhealthy for 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 helpful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, trees become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, causing them to fall and power lines below. If the power in your house goes out, you can use an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a major plus for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The flu

The flue is an inside tunnel in the chimney that carries gases and smoke from your fireplace out of your house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue generates a wind that pulls air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gases emitted by the fire from billowing back down into your home, and instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. This controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your chimney must be inspected regularly for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe, which is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, should be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush, an electric fireplaces drill fitted using a masonry tool as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any creosote or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.

Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to stop the conditioned air from escape. This also stops rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and causing damage to the 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 by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep a fireplace's flue open while the fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. This can help you save money on your energy bills.