What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have fireplaces electric that offer warmth and comfort all day long and into the night. They also add beauty and value to the property.

If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to skilled professionals.

The Hearth

The hearth is a non-combustible surface that is used to surround a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The word “hearth” is often used to refer to the entire area of the fireplace including the firebox, the raised mantel and floor, as well as the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific Ethonal fire safety rules regarding the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. Please consult your local governing authority for more information.

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

Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to early human life. Many people believe that hearths supplied food, light, warmth, and protection.

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

Hearths were traditionally constructed out of stone, but they are now made out of brick or concrete and can be in different sizes and shapes. Some cooking marble fireplaces have hearths that completely cover the wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material of a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and resistance.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also known as a “mantel”, is the frame above the hearth that adds to the ambience of a room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it also serves as a useful element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and reflects heat into the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items like mirrors or paintings.

Based on the type of fireplace, there are a variety of alternatives for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible, while others must meet the fire codes of the local and federal government in regards to clearance distances from combustible objects.

The most popular choices for surrounds are stone, brick or concrete. Some stone surrounds are carved with decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These elements can give a home a more sophisticated design that matches its style.

Another option is to use plaster. It is a mixture of sand, cement and water and can be finished to match any style of architecture. For instance, a textured surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.

The final option for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a range of colors and designs. It can be used as an accent to the surround or extended across the entire wall for a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great option for homes that have contemporary styles.

The surround is one of the first things that guests see upon entering a space. For this reason, it is crucial to select the right piece that will set the tone of your room and increase your home’s value.

The Firebox

The firebox is the area behind a fireplace’s opening where the fire can be created and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood but some can also burn gas such as propane or natural gas.

No matter what kind of fuel you use, the firebox is the place where combustion occurs and must be maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The hearth’s grate along with a fire poker as well as an air damper are the most important components of the firebox to ensure efficient operation.

In addition to keeping the firebox and its interior in good condition It is essential to clean out your fireplace on a regular basis. The inside of the fireplace will be soiled by dust and soot due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To do this, you can make use of a wire brush or scraper to take off the caked on ash and soot.

To ensure durability and longevity, it’s recommended to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and won’t corrosion. They will also provide a more uniform heat distribution and last longer.

You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace by using 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 approved. This includes not only the fireplace itself, but also the accessories and decorations you’re adding to it.

The Burner

Burners are an easy method to add warmth and style to your home. These fireplace accessories are available in many different shapes and sizes, so it’s easy to find one that fits your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors and outdoors, as they are safe.

There are many types of burners. Each has its own pros and cons. Some are more expensive than others, but all provide a variety of benefits for your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and can be used with or without chimneys. No matter which kind of burner you select, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.

The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it’s not always the most practical. In addition to being messy and uninspiring as well as the smoke and soot it produces can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners create water vapor and very little CO2, making them more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also prove useful in the occasion of an outage. In winter, fire trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to fall below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm if the power is cut off in your home. This is a major plus for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flue

The flue is a tunnel inside the chimney that carries gases and smoke out of the home. It’s also a key element of a safe and effective fire. A flue generates a wind that draws air into the fire. This lets the fuel burn completely and reduces smoke.

The drafting mechanism of the flue keeps the hot gases emitted by the fire from blowing back down into your home, instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your chimney must be checked regularly for blockages and leaks. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, needs to be cleaned using special cleaning equipment and chemicals. This includes a metal brush, a drill with a masonry bit as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any creosote or soot stuck to the flue’s walls. pipe.

Close the flue when not using your fireplace in order to prevent the conditioned air from escape. It also stops rain or wind gusts from getting into the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.

The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace can be opened or closed by a handle or latch. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace’s flue open when a fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not being used. This will help you save energy costs.