15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Many homes have fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort all day long and into the night. They also enhance the beauty and value of the house.
Homeowners can complete many of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace requires facelifts or basic repairs. Certain jobs that require gas service must be left to professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or simply the foundation upon which the fireplace is set. The word "hearth" is usually used to describe the entirety of the fireplace including the firebox, the floor and mantel as well as the chimney. It is nevertheless important to note that there are specific fire safety guidelines regarding how a fireplace and its components should be built, so please check with your local governing body for more details.
Hearths are usually constructed from brick, stone or cement, and are the focal point of any room. They are designed to create a barrier between the fire and the flooring, and to guard against accidental fires caused by stray logs or embers. They also provide a space for storing fireplace tools as well as wood and other materials.
Archaeological research has revealed that hearths played a significant role in early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied food, protection, light and warmth.
While a hearth has numerous benefits, it could also cause serious health issues in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases blood levels of nitrogen, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from delivering oxygen into the tissues. In high doses it can cause dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness.
Traditionally, hearths were built out of rock, however they are now made of brick or concrete and can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces feature hearths that completely cover the wall while others are smaller and purely decorative elements that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in the construction of the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance and cost as well as heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also referred to as a "mantel", is the frame that sits above the hearth that adds to the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it shields flammable materials from the hearth and disperses heat into the room. It also serves as an extra shelf for household items like mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the type and size of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, and others must be in compliance with local and federal fire codes in regards to clearance distances from items that are combustible.
The most popular choices for surrounds are brick, stone or concrete. Certain stone surrounds feature decorative features, such as bevels or bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These details can give a house a more sophisticated appearance that is in harmony with its style.
Plaster is another option. This material can be made with a mixture of sand and cement, and it is then finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for instance can be a perfect match for a Mission style home.
Tile is the final option for a surround. It is available in a variety of patterns and colors. It can be used to accent the surround, or it can be extended across the entire wall to create a striking focal point. It is a fantastic option for homes with a contemporary style.
The surround is among the first things people notice when entering a living space. It is important to select a piece to set the tone for your space and add value to your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace's opening where a fire may be built and maintained. It's typically surrounded by some type of chimney that allows the smoke to escape through. Usually, these traditional structures burn wood, however some can also burn gas such as natural gas or propane.
Regardless of what type of fuel you choose to use the firebox is the place where the combustion takes place and must be maintained for safety and efficiency. The firebox is made up of several important components. They include the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.
It is essential to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes keeping the firebox in good order and its interior lining. Because it is constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the interior will be soiled with soot and ash that need to be removed. To clean it, use 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 interior of your firebox with steel slag. These kinds of metals resist corrosion and won't rust. They will also provide a more even heat distribution and last for longer.
You can also enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace with decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Be certain that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes the fireplace inserts, as along with any accessories or decorations you'll add to it.
The Burner
Burners are an easy way to add warmth and beauty to your home. These fireplace accessories are available in many different shapes and sizes which makes it easy to find one that is suitable for your home. Some even come with remotes, which means you can control the flame from any place in the room. Fire-burners can be used indoors as well as outdoors, since they are safe.
There are many kinds of burners, each with their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, however they all offer a range of benefits. Some are more secure than others, and some work with chimneys or without. No matter what type of burners you choose, always follow the instructions provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed correctly and in compliance with the laws of your state and local authorities.
While burning wood is the most popular way to enjoy a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot produced by burning wood could be hazardous to your family and you. Ethanol burners release water vapor, and very low levels of CO2, which is more environmentally friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be useful in the event of an outage. In winter, trees can be weighed down by the weight of snow and ice, causing them to fall, and power lines to drop below. If the electricity in your house goes out it is possible to use a fireplace to keep warm and cook food. This is a great option for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a passageway inside the chimney that carries smoke and gases out of the home. It's also a key element of a secure and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn and reduce smoke.
The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gases emitted by the fire from billowing back down into your home, instead, they are carried 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 center of the chimney, must be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. The metal brush, a drill equipped with brick bits and masking tape are required to remove any soot or tarnish that has accumulated on the walls of the chimney flue pipe.
Shut off the flue when not using your fireplace to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. It also stops rain or wind gusts from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace wood stove, or gas furnace.
The damper, which is located at the bottom of the flue pipe or flue tiles, and at the top of the fireplace can be opened or closed via a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the white fireplace's flue open when there is a fire burning. However it should be shut when the fireplace isn't in use. This will save you money on your energy bills.