10 Inspirational Graphics About Fireplace
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are central to many homes they provide warmth and comfort throughout the day and at night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the house.
Whether your fireplace needs a facelift or just some basic repairs, these projects can often be completed by homeowners. Certain tasks that require gas must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for an open fireplace or wood stove. It may be a whole raised area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The word "hearth" is usually used to describe the whole area of the fireplace including the firebox, the floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety regulations concerning the construction of the fireplace as well as its accessories. Please consult your local authority for more details.
Hearths are usually constructed of brick, stone or cement and can be the focal point of any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools wood, tools, and other items.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were important to the early human era. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth offers many advantages, it can also trigger serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases nitrogen levels in blood which hinders red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. It can lead to nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness when in high levels.
Traditionally, hearths were constructed out of stone, but they are nowadays constructed of brick or concrete and can come in different shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that completely cover the wall and others are smaller and purely decorative pieces that only cover the fireplace's opening. The material used to build a fireplace can greatly influence its appearance, price and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel", is the frame that sits above the hearth that enhances the ambience of a room. It's not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical since it shields combustibles from the fire and deflects heat back into the space. It also serves as an area to store household items like mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of fireplace, there are several material options for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible and others must be in compliance with federal and local fire codes regarding clearance distances from combustible items.
The most popular options for the surround are concrete, brick, and stone. Certain stone surrounds are carved using decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These details can give a home a more sophisticated appearance that is in harmony with the style.
electric fireplace wall mount is another alternative. It is a mix of sand, cement and water and can be shaped to match any architectural style. A plaster surround, for example can be a perfect match for an Mission style home.
The last popular choice for the 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 to create an eye-catching focal point. Tile is also a good option for homes with modern or contemporary styles.
The surround is the first thing people notice when they enter a living space. It is essential to select an item that sets the tone for your home and to increase the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the space behind a fireplace's opening where a fire can be built and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, but some also burn gas like natural gas or propane.
The firebox is where combustion occurs and should be maintained in order to ensure security and effectiveness. The hearth's grate as well as a fire poker and an air damper are all vital parts of the firebox for the proper operation.
In addition to maintaining the firebox and its lining in good shape It's also important to clean your fireplace regularly. The inside of the fireplace will be matted by soot and dust due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To do this, you can make use of a wire brush or a scraper to get rid of the caked on soot and ash.
It's also a good idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure longevity and durability. These types of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They'll also provide 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 also utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Be certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL rated for safety. This includes the fireplace as well as any other accessories and decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy method to add warmth and beauty to any space. These fireplace accessories are available in a variety of 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 any place in the house. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, making them a great option for outdoor and indoor areas.
There are many types of burners. Each one has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of benefits. Certain types of burners are safer than others models, and some can be used with chimneys or without. No matter which kind of burner you pick, always follow the instructions that are in the manual. This will ensure the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with the laws of your state and local authorities.
Burning wood is a traditional way to enjoy your fireplace, however it's not always efficient. The smoke and soot produced from burning wood can be dangerous to your family and you. Ethanol burners release water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more sustainable.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of an outage. In winter, trees get weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall, and power lines to drop below. You can use your fireplace to cook and keep warm if the power is cut off in your home. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an inner tunnel in the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace away from your home. It's also a crucial element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reduces smoke.
The drafting of the flue stops the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back into your home and instead, they go out to the outside where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, must be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits, and masking tape are needed to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace in order to prevent conditioned air from escaping. It also stops winds or rain from getting into the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe, or flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace can be shut or opened by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open even when a fire is burning however, it should be shut when not in use to reduce your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.
