How To Outsmart Your Boss On Fireplace
How To Outsmart Your Boss On Fireplace
Blog Article
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
Fireplaces are a major feature of many homes they provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also add beauty and value to the property.
Homeowners can complete many of these projects regardless of whether your fireplace requires facelifts or easy repairs. However, certain jobs requiring gas service should be left to skilled professionals.
The Hearth
The hearth is a noncombustible surface that is used to surround a fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a raised area or just the foundation of the fireplace. The term "hearth" is often used to refer to the entirety of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the mantel and floor as well as the chimney. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that there are very specific fire safety guidelines regarding how the fireplace and its accessories should be constructed, so check with your local governing body for more information.
They can be made of cement, bricks, or stone. They make a great focal feature for any room. They are designed to guard against accidental fires that could 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 research points to the importance of hearths as a key to early human life. It is widely believed that they supplied food, protection, light and warmth.
A hearth could be a source of serious health issues if it is not maintained properly. Smoke inhalation increases the levels of nitrogen in blood which blocks red blood cells from delivering oxygen to the tissues (methemoglobinemia). In high doses it can cause nausea, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hearths were originally made of rock but they are now typically made of brick or concrete. They can come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that are able to cover the entire wall while others are smaller and solely decorative elements that cover the opening of the fireplace. The material of a hearth can significantly affect its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel" is the frame that sits above the hearth which enhances the ambience of a room. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also a functional element since it shields flammable materials from the fireplace and reflects heat away from the space. It can also serve as an area to display household items like mirrors or paintings.
There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Some surrounds are non-combustible, while others must meet the fire codes of the local and federal government in relation to clearance distances away from combustible objects.
The most popular options for surrounds are brick, stone, or concrete. Certain stone surrounds are carved with attractive features such as bevels or bolection moulding. They may also have plinths or cornices. These elements can give an elegant look that is in keeping with the style of the home.
Plaster is a different option. It is made with a mixture of cement and sand, and finished to match any architectural design. A plaster surround, for example can go well with an Mission style home.
Tile is the final option for a surround. This material is available in a myriad of patterns and colors. It can be used as a decorative element to the surround or extended across the entire wall for an impressive focal point. Tile is a great option for homes with a contemporary or modern style.
The surround is one of the first things that guests see upon entering a space. It is for this reason that it is essential to choose the right piece that will set the tone of your space and increase the value of your home.
The Firebox
The firebox is an area behind the fireplace opening, in which a fire can be constructed and maintained. The firebox is typically surrounded by a chimney that allows the smoke to escape. These traditional structures usually burn wood, but they 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 combustion occurs and must be properly maintained for safety and effectiveness. The firebox is comprised of several essential components. This includes the grate, the fire poker, and the air damper.
It is important to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good condition and its interior lining. The interior of the fireplace will be soiled by soot and dust due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. To do this, you can use wire brushes or a scraper to remove the caked on ash and soot.
For durability and long-term longevity, it's a good idea to line the inside of your fireplace with steel slag. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not get rusty. They also provide more even heat distribution and will last longer.
You can also add visual appeal to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs and lava stones. Some people prefer modern decorative glass instead. Be certain that the glass you're using for your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes not only the fireplace, but any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a great method to add warmth and aesthetics to any space. These fireplace accessories are available in various shapes and sizes that make it easy to locate the ideal one for your home. Some are even equipped 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, as they are safe.
There are a variety of burners. Each one has its own advantages and drawbacks. Some are more expensive, but they all have a variety of benefits. Some are safer than others, and some can be used with or without chimneys. No matter which kind of burner you pick ensure that you follow the directions included in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and in conformity with all state and local regulations.
While burning wood is the most popular method of enjoying an open flame, it's not always the most practical. In addition to being messy and uninspiring it also produces smoke and soot it produces could be harmful for you and your family. Ethanol burners release water vapor and very little CO2, which is more eco-friendly.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it can be useful in the event of a power outage. In winter, trees can get weighed down by heavy snow and ice, leading them to fall, and power lines to fall below. Fireplaces can be used to cook and keep warm when the power is out in your home. This is a great solution for homeowners who are prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is a passageway inside a chimney which carries smoke and gases out of the home. It's also a crucial element of a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing fuel to fully burn and reduce smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue prevents the hot gases produced by the fire from leaking back down into your home, and instead, they are carried outside, where they can cool. It is this regulated venting that stops carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check your chimney regularly for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe (a steel tube or duct running through the middle of the chimney) must be cleaned with UK Stoves special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush, the use of a drill using a masonry drill as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any creosote or sooty residue stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to stop conditioned air from escaping. This also stops wind or rain from entering the fireplace and damaging your gas or wood stove 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 shut or opened with a latch or handle. The damper is designed to keep the fireplace's flue open when the fire is burning. However, it should be closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. This can help you save money on your energy bills.