15 Gifts For The Fireplace Lover In Your Life
What Are Fireplace Accessories?
cheap fireplaces are central to many homes, providing warmth and comfort all day and night. They also provide value and aesthetics to the house.
Whether your fireplace needs an overhaul or basic repairs, these projects can be done by homeowners. Certain jobs requiring gas services should be left to experts.
The Hearth
The hearth is a non-combustible surface that covers the fireplace or wood-burning stove. It could be a complete raised area or simply the foundation where the fireplace is. The term "hearth", which is used to describe all the components of the freestanding fireplace, such as the firebox, the raised floor and mantel, as well as the chimney, is often used. However, it is important to note that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how a fireplace and its accessories should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more details.
Hearths are usually made of stone, brick or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to form an enclosure between the fire and the flooring and protect against accidental fires triggered by stray embers or logs. They can also be used to store fireplace tools as well as wood and other equipment.
Archaeological studies have revealed that hearths played a significant role in the early human era. It is widely believed that they supplied light, food, protection and warmth.
Although a hearth can provide many benefits, it can also cause serious health issues if not properly maintained. Smoke exposure increases blood levels of nitrogen, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. In high doses, it may cause nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Hearths used to be made of rock however, they are now often made of brick or concrete. They come in various shapes and sizes. Some cooking fireplaces have hearths that extend over the entire wall. Others are smaller, purely decorative features that cover the area of the fireplace opening. The material of a hearth can greatly influence its appearance, cost and heat resistance.
The Surround
A fireplace stove surround, also referred to as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth that enhances the ambiance of a room. Besides its aesthetic value, it also serves as a practical element since it keeps combustible substances away from the hearth and disperses heat away from the room. It can also serve as an area to display household items such as mirrors or paintings.
Based on the type of fireplace, there are several alternatives for the surround. Certain surrounds are not combustible while others must meet local and federal fire codes in regards to clearance distances from items that are combustible.
Some popular choices for surrounds include concrete, brick, and stone. Some stone surrounds come with decorative features such as bevels and bolection moulding. These Stone Fireplaces surrounds can also have plinths or cornices. These elements can give a more refined appearance that is in keeping with the style of the home.
Another option is to use plaster. It is an amalgamation of sand cement and water. It can be shaped to match any style of architecture. A plaster surround, for example can go well with a Mission style house.
Tile is the last choice for a surround. Tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used as an accent to the surround or spread across the entire wall for an eye-catching focal point. Tile is a great option for homes that have modern style.
The surround is among the first things guests notice when entering a living space. It is important to select an item that will set the tone for your home and to enhance the value of 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 kind of chimney to allow the smoke to escape through. These traditional structures typically burn wood, but some may also utilize gas, such as propane or natural gas.
The firebox is the place where the fire is created and it must be maintained properly for safety and effectiveness. The firebox is comprised of several essential components. This includes the grate and the fire poker and the air damper.
It is crucial to clean your fireplace regularly. This includes maintaining the firebox in good condition and its liner. Because it is constantly exposed to high temperatures, the inside of the fireplace will be soiled with soot and ash that need to be cleaned out. To accomplish this, employ wire brushes or a scraper to remove the caked-on soot and ash.
It's also a great idea to use steel slag or stainless steel to line the inside of the firebox for longevity and durability. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not be rusty. They also offer more uniform heat distribution and last longer.
Finally you can add some visual flair to your fireplace by using decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people also choose to utilize modern glass with decorative designs as an alternative. Just be sure that whatever you're using to make your fireplace is UL certified for safety. This includes not only the fireplace itself but also any decorations and accessories you're adding to it.
The Burner
Burners are a popular way to add warmth and style to any space. They are available in many different sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find one that fits your home. Some even come with remotes, so you can control the flame from any place in the room. They are also safe to use, making them an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor areas.
There are a variety of burners, each having their own pros and cons. Some are more expensive, but they all have a variety of advantages. Certain are more secure than others, and some can be used without or with chimneys. Whatever kind of burner you pick, always follow the instructions included in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is properly installed and is in compliance with all state and local regulations.
While burning wood is the traditional way to enjoy a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot generated from burning wood fireplaces can be dangerous to your family members and yourself. Ethanol burners create water vapor, and very little CO2, which is more sustainable.
Another benefit of having a fireplace is that it could be helpful in the event of an outage. In winter, trees get weighed down by heavy snow and ice, which causes them to fall and power lines below. If the electricity in your house goes out and you need to find an open fire to warm up and cook food. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who wish to be prepared for the unexpected.
The Flu
The flue is an inner tunnel inside a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace to your home. It is also an essential element to ensure a safe and efficient fire. A flue creates an updraft that pulls air through the fire, allowing the fuel to burn fully and reducing smoke.
The drafting mechanism of the flue prevents the hot gas produced by the fire from blowing back into your home and instead, they are carried out to the outside where they can cool. This controlled venting keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.
Check your chimney regularly for any leaks or blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the center of the chimney, should be cleaned with special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a brush made of metal and a drill using a masonry tool as well as masking tape and an utility knife to remove any soot or creosote that has accumulated on the walls of the flue pipe.
Close the flue when you're not using your fireplace to prevent the conditioned air from venting out. It also stops winds or rain from entering the chimney and damaging your fireplace wood stove or gas furnace.
The damper can be closed and opened using a latch or handle. It is located at the top of your fireplace, near the flue tile or pipe. It is designed to keep the flue open while there is a fire burning however it should be closed when not in use to reduce your energy costs and keep animals and precipitation out of your fireplace.