15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life
15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that offer warmth and comfort all day long and into the night long. They also add value and beauty to the house.
Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or basic repairs, these projects can often be completed by homeowners. Certain tasks that require gas should be left to experts.
The Hearth
The hearth is the non-combustible flooring for the wood stove or fireplace. It could be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The word "hearth", which is used to describe all of the components of a fireplace, including the firebox, the floor that is raised as well as the mantel and chimney, is commonly used. However, it is important to remember that there are strict fire safety regulations about how the fireplace and its accessories should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.
Hearths are generally constructed from brick, stone or cement. They can be the focal point of any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that may be caused by stray embers or even logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other items.
Archaeological studies have shown that hearths were crucial to the early human era. It is widely believed that they provided food, protection, light and warmth.
A hearth could cause serious health problems if it's not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation raises blood levels of nitrogen which hinders red blood cells from delivering oxygen to tissues (methemoglobinemia). It can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness when in high levels.
Traditionally, hearths were constructed of rock but they are now commonly made of brick or concrete and can be in different sizes and shapes. Some cooking fireplaces come with hearths that completely cover the wall and others are smaller and purely decorative elements that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used to construct a hearth has a great impact on its appearance, cost, and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that sits above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of the room. It is not just visually pleasing, but also functional because it keeps combustibles out from the fire and also deflects heat back into the space. It can also be used as an area to display household items like mirrors or paintings.
There are different options depending on the type and size of the fireplace. Some are not combustible and others must be in compliance with the national and local fire codes 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. These stone surrounds may include plinths or cornices. These details can give your home a more refined look that complements its style.
Plaster is a different alternative. It is a mixture of sand, cement and water. It can be finished to match any style of architecture. For example, a plaster surround can complement a Mission-style house.
Tile is the final option for a surround. It comes in a variety of patterns and colors. It can be used as an accent to the surround or extended across the entire wall to create a dramatic focal feature. Tile is also a good option for homes with modern or contemporary style.
The surround is the first thing people notice when they enter a living space. It is important to select an item that will set the tone for your home and also to add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind the fireplace's opening, where a fire can be built and maintained. It is usually surrounded by some sort of chimney for the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood but some can also burn gas, such as natural gas or propane.
Whatever fuel you use the firebox is the place the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox consists of several essential components. They include the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.
In addition to maintaining the firebox and its interior in good condition, it's important to clean your fireplace regularly. Since it's constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be covered in soot and ash which need to be cleaned out. You can employ a scraper or wirebrush to get rid of the soot and ash that has been clogged up.
For longevity and durability, it's recommended to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and will not rust. They also have an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people opt for modern-looking decorative glass instead. Be sure that the glass you're using for your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This is not just the fireplace itself but also the accessories and decorations you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add heat and aesthetics to any room. These fireplace accessories are available in various sizes and shapes that make it easy to find the ideal one for your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, which means you can control the flame from anywhere in the room. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor spaces.
There are many types of burners. Each one has its own advantages and drawbacks. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of advantages. Some are more secure than others, and some work with chimneys or without. Regardless of which type of burner you select be sure to adhere to the directions in the manual for the product. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and in conformity with all state and local regulations.
Burning wood is a traditional way read more to enjoy your fireplace, but it's not always the most efficient. The smoke and soot created from burning wood can be harmful to you and your family. Ethanol burners produce water vapor, and very little CO2, making them more eco-friendly.
A fireplace can also be beneficial in the case of a power outage. In winter, a lot of snow and ice may accumulate on trees, which can cause them to fall and slam down power lines that hang below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm in the event that the electricity is cut off in your home. This is a huge benefit for those who want to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an inside tunnel of a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace to your home. It is also an important element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn, as well as reduces smoke.
The flue's draft stops the hot gases that are produced by the fire from flowing into your home. Instead, they are carried outside to cool. It is this controlled venting that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning.
The chimney should be checked regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) is to be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a brush made of metal and an electric drill fitted using a masonry drill, as well as masking tape and a utility knife for removing any soot or creosote that is stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Keep the flue shut when you're not using your fireplace can help keep the conditioned air inside from escape. This also stops rain or wind gusts getting into the fireplace and causing damage to your gas or wood stove furnace.
The damper can be opened and closed using a latch or handle. It is located on the top of your fireplace near the flue pipe or tile. It is designed to keep the flue open even when there is a fire burning however, it should be shut when not in use to help reduce your energy costs and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.