Fireplace: 11 Thing You're Forgetting To Do
Fireplace: 11 Thing You're Forgetting To Do
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that offer warmth and comfort all day and night long. They also add value and beauty to the house.
Homeowners can tackle most of these tasks regardless of whether your fireplace requires a facelift or some easy repairs. Certain jobs requiring gas services are best left to the professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is the noncombustible flooring for the wood stove or fireplace. It can be an elevated area or simply the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is usually used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, including the firebox, raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless important to remember that there are very specific fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its accessories must be constructed, so contact your local authority for more information.
They can be constructed from stone, bricks or cement. They make a great focal feature for 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, wood, and other supplies.
Archaeological studies point to the importance of hearths as the central to early human life. It is widely believed that they provided light, food, security, and warmth.
A hearth can be a source of serious health problems if it's not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases nitrogen levels in blood which blocks red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from carrying oxygen to tissues. It can cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness when in high concentrations.
Hearths were originally constructed from rock however, they are now commonly made from brick or concrete. They can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that span the whole wall while others are smaller, more decorative features that are only covering the the fireplace opening. The material used to build a fireplace can greatly influence its appearance, cost and resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround (also known as mantel) is the frame that is situated above the hearth, and is a part of the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it also serves as a useful element as it keeps combustible substances away from the hearth and disperses heat away from the space. It can also be used as an area to store household items like mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Some are non-combustible while others need to meet local and national fire codes regarding clearance distances from combustible objects.
Some of the most popular choices for the surround are concrete, brick, and stone. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. These stone surrounds may include plinths or cornices. These elements can give an elegant appearance that complements the style of the home.
Another option is to use plaster. It is made from a mix of cement and sand, and finished to match any design. For instance, a textured surround can complement a Mission-style home.
The last popular choice for an interior fireplace surround is tile. It is available in a variety of patterns and colors. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround, or spread across the entire wall for a dramatic focal point. Tile is a great option for homes that have modern or contemporary style.
The surround is the first thing guests notice when they enter a living UK Fireplace room. It is crucial to choose an item that sets the mood for your space and add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is the part behind a fireplace's opening where the fire can be created and maintained. The firebox is usually surrounded by a chimney, allowing smoke to escape. Most of the time, these traditional structures burn wood, however some can also burn gas like natural gas or propane.
Whatever fuel you use, the firebox is where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained to ensure safety and efficiency. The firebox consists of several essential components. This includes the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
It is crucial to regularly clean your fireplace. This includes maintaining the firebox in good condition and the interior lining. The interior of the fireplace will be matted by dust and soot due to its constant exposure to high temperatures. You can make use of a scraper or wirebrush to clean the ash and soot that have been clogged on.
It's also a great idea to make use of steel slag or stainless steel to line the interior of the firebox to ensure longevity and durability. These metals are resistant to corrosion and won't get rusty. They'll also provide an even heat distribution, which will last longer.
You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people also choose to use decorative modern glass as an alternative. Make sure the fireplace you use is UL approved. This is not just the fireplace itself but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a common way to add warmth and beauty to any room. They come in various sizes and shapes that make it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some are even equipped with remotes, so you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire burners are also quite safe to use, which makes them an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a variety of burners, each having distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, but they all provide a variety advantages for your home. Certain types of burners are safer than others, and some can be used with or without chimneys. Whatever type of burner you select ensure that you follow the instructions in the manual for the product. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in compliance with all state and local regulations.
Burning wood is a traditional method of enjoying your fireplace, but it's not always efficient. In addition to being messy and uninspiring, the smoke and soot it produces can be unhealthy for you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor, and extremely little CO2, making them more sustainable.
A fireplace can also be helpful in the case of a power outage. In winter, trees be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, leading them to fall and power lines to drop below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the power is out in your home. This is an important benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The flu
The flue is an inside tunnel of the chimney that carries smoke and gases from your fireplace to your house. It's also a key element of a safe and effective fire. A flue is a source of updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn, as well as reduces smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue prevents the hot gas produced by the fire from leaking back into your home, instead, they are carried out, where they will cool. This controlled venting keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.
The chimney should be inspected regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, should be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with a brick bit and masking tape are required to remove any tarnish or soot that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace in order to prevent conditioned air from escaping. It also stops wind or rain from entering the chimney and causing damage to your fireplace, wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper can be shut and opened 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 when the fire is burning, but it should be shut when not in use to lower your energy bills and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.