7 Easy Secrets To Totally Rocking Your Fireplace
7 Easy Secrets To Totally Rocking Your Fireplace
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and all night long. They also provide value and aesthetics to the interior of your home.
If your fireplace requires an overhaul or basic repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to trained professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible floor to an open wood stove or fireplace. It can be an elevated area or the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth", which 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 a common term. It is important to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the construction of the fireplace and its accessories. Check with your local governing authority for further information.
They can be made from cement, bricks, or stone. They are a great focal point for any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring and protect against accidental fires that are caused by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other equipment.
Archaeological research points to the importance of hearths as central to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, security, and warmth.
A hearth can cause serious health problems if it's not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation raises nitrogen levels in the blood which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can lead to nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness at high concentrations.
Hearths used to be made of stone but they are now typically made of concrete or brick. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that completely cover the wall and others are smaller and purely decorative elements that cover the fireplace's opening. The material of a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also called mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth and enhances the ambiance of the room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and deflects heat into the room. It can also serve as a shelf to display household items, such as mirrors or paintings.
There are various options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Certain materials are non-combustible, while others must be in compliance with local and national standards for clearance distances from combustible objects.
Popular choices for the surround are brick, stone or concrete. Some stone surrounds have decorative features like bevels and bolection moulding. They may also have cornices or plinths. These elements can give a more refined appearance that is in keeping with the style of the house.
Plaster is a different option. This material can be created by mixing cement and sand, and finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for example can go well with an Mission style house.
The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. This material is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used to add a splash of color to the surrounding area or be extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal point. It is a fantastic choice for homes in modern style.
The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living space. This is why it is important to choose a piece that will set the tone of your room and increase the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind a fireplace's opening where the fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is usually enclosed by a chimney to allow smoke to escape. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.
Regardless of what type of fuel you choose to use, the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is made up of a number of important parts. They include the grate as well as the fire poker and the air damper.
It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and the liner. Because it is constantly exposed to high temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash, which needs to be cleared. You can employ a scraper or wirebrush to get rid of the soot and ash that has been caked on.
It's also a great idea to utilize steel slag or steel to line the inside of the firebox to ensure durability and long-term use. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not corrosion. They will also provide a more uniform heat distribution and will last longer.
You can also make your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Be certain that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL approved for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you add to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add heat and aesthetics to any room. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to locate the perfect burner for your home. Some come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire burners are safe to use, making them a great option for outdoor and indoor areas.
There are many kinds of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but they all provide a variety benefits for your home. Some are safer than other models, and some can be used with or without chimneys. Whatever kind of burner you pick be sure to follow the instructions in the user's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with all local and state laws.
While burning wood is the traditional way to enjoy an open flame, it's not always the most practical. In addition to being a messy, inconvenient process it also produces smoke and soot that it releases can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand produce water vapor and minimal CO2 - which is much more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be beneficial in the event of a power outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall and slam down under-hanging power lines. If the power supply in your house goes out and you need to find the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a tunnel inside the chimney, which is used to transport gases and smoke out of the home. 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 reduces smoke.
The drafting action of the flue keeps the hot gases produced by the fire Fireplaces UK from leaking back down into your home, and instead carrying them out to the outside where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
The chimney should be checked regularly 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. This includes a metal brush, an electric drill fitted using a masonry tool, as well as masking tape and a utility knife for removing any soot or creosote that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.
The flue should be kept closed when you aren't using your fireplace can help keep the air conditioned inside from getting out. This also prevents rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to your gas or wood stove furnace.
The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles and at the top of the fireplace, is able to be closed or opened via a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue clear when there is a fire burning. However it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save money on your energy bills.