15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the interior of your home.
Whether your fireplace needs to be repainted or just minor repairs, these tasks can be done by homeowners. However, certain tasks that require gas service must be left to skilled professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring of an open fireplace or wood stove. It could be a elevated area or simply the foundation on which the fireplace sits. The term "hearth" is commonly used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace including the firebox, raised mantel and floor as well as the chimney. It is crucial to remember that there are specific fire safety rules concerning the construction of the fireplace and its accessories. Please consult your local authority for further information.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement and can be an important focal point in any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers or even logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools, wood, and other items.
Archaeological research has revealed the importance of hearths as central to early human existence. Many people believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food, and protection.
Although a hearth can provide many advantages, it can cause serious health problems in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure raises the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). At high levels, it may cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were once made of rock but they are now typically made of concrete or brick. They can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that extend over the entire wall, while others are smaller, more decorative features that cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material of a hearth can have a significant impact on its appearance, cost and resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel", is the frame over the hearth that enhances the atmosphere of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the hearth and disperses heat from 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 type and size of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, while others must meet federal and local fire codes in relation to clearance distances away from combustible objects.
The most popular options for surrounds include concrete, brick and stone. Some stone surrounds are carved with decorative features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These details can give a house a more sophisticated appearance that is in harmony with its style.
Another option is to use plaster. This material is made from an amalgamation of sand cement and water. It can be finished to match any style of architecture. For instance, a plaster surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style house.
The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. Tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used to accent the wall or be extended over the entire wall to create an impressive focal. Tile is an excellent option for homes with modern style.
The surround is among the first things that guests see when entering a living space. It is for this reason that it is important to choose a piece that will set the tone of your room and enhance your home's value.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind the fireplace's opening, where the fire can be created and maintained. It's usually surrounded by a kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood but some can also burn gas like propane or natural gas.
No matter what kind of fuel you use the firebox is the place the place where combustion occurs and must be maintained for safety and effectiveness. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all important parts of the firebox for proper operation.
In addition to keeping the firebox and its liner in good shape It's also important to clean out your fireplace on a regular basis. Since it's always exposed to extreme temperatures, the interior will be covered in soot and ash which need to be removed. To clean it, use a wire brush or a scraper to get rid of the caked on soot and ash.
To ensure durability and longevity, it's a good idea to line the inside of your firebox with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not get rusty. They also offer more even heat distribution and last longer.
You can also make your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people also make use of modern decorative glass as an alternative. Make certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace, as along with any accessories or decorations you put on it.
The Burner
Burners are a simple way to add warmth and beauty to your home. They are available in many different sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. They are also safe to use, which makes them an ideal choice for outdoor and indoor areas.
There are many different types of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. 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 some work with or without chimneys. No matter what type of burner you choose, make sure to follow the directions provided in the product's manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and in compliance with all local and state regulations.
The burning of wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, however it's not always practical. The smoke and soot generated by burning wood can be hazardous to you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand, produce only CO2 and water vapor which is a lot more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be helpful in the event of an outage. During winter, heavy snow and ice can accumulate on trees, which could cause them to fall, and even knock down power lines hanging from the ceiling. If the power supply in your home goes out, you can use the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flue
The flue is an inside tunnel in a chimney that brings gases and smoke from your fireplace out of your house. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduce smoke.
The drafting action of the flue keeps the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back down into your home and instead, they go outside, where they can cool. This controlled venting stops carbon monoxide from escaping.
Your chimney needs to be regularly inspected for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a stainless steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, needs to be cleaned with special cleaning equipment and chemicals. The metal brush, a drill with brick bits, and masking tape are required to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you aren't using your fireplace can help keep the conditioned air inside from escape. 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 at the top of the fireplace is able to be closed or opened by a handle or latch. It is designed to keep the flue open when there is a fire burning, but it should be closed when not in use to reduce your energy costs and keep precipitation and animals out of your fireplace.