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Fireplace Tips
In this day age many people are trying to cut down on gas and heating costs by
trying to heat their homes with a fireplace. Installing a fireplace can
be a big project that can cost a lot of money, so before starting be sure to
keep these things in mind:
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What type of fireplace do you want? There are a few options, the most common
options being electric fireplaces, wood stoves, gas fireplaces, and the
traditional fireplace. Each have strengths and weaknesses. Determine
how much use you plan to get from your fireplace and then decided which type
to go with.
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It is best to have professionals install a fireplace. The problems
that could arise if mistakes are made are so disastrous it is not worth
taking the risk. Many insurance policies don't cover damage
caused by a fire from a fireplace or wood stove that wasn't installed
professionally.
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If installing the fireplace on a combustible floor surface then it will be
necessary to also install a non-combustible hearth.
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Before selecting a fireplace, you need to know where you are
going to locate it within the room. Ideally it should
be in a spot removed from foot traffic and have plenty of clearance with
doors and windows. Also, don't forget to make sure there aren't any
construction obstacles on the floors above and below.
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Often a corner of a room is the most efficient place to install a fireplace
or wood stove because it will take up less floor space and be less
intrusive.
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The fireplace or wood stove is going to need to be vented to the
outside. The flue pipe must be higher than any other vents
or combustion pipes on your roof. A chimney must extend at least
3 feet above your roof and should also be a minimum of 2 feet higher
than anything else that surrounds it for a 10 foot radius.
Fireplace installation contractors may also provide the following services:
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Firewood
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Foundations
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Interior Design
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HVAC
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Masonry
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Fireplace Chimneys
By Kent Pinkerton
An essential part of both indoor and outdoor fireplaces, fireplace chimneys vent the hazardous and noxious gases, produced by the combustion of fuels, safely to the outside atmosphere. Fireplace chimneys regulate the flow of air and keep excessive heat from combustible materials that surround the fireplace.
Initially, fireplace chimneys were made of brick and mortar, bordered with fireproof tiles. But the newer models of metal are easy to install. Fireplace chimneys must be able to withstand the recurrent heating and cooling process of the fireplace and also the corrosive compounds produced after combustion.
Flue, containing the products of combustion, forms the inner and the most important layer of fireplace chimneys. In the case of wood burning fireplaces, a highly flammable substance called creosote is deposited on the flues, which blocks the passage of air through the system. A clean flue is crucial for the unhindered dispersal of combustion products.
Apart from flues, fireplace chimneys include chimney caps, chimney flashing, chimney dampers, chimney liners, and cleanout doors. Chimney caps usually made of copper, stainless steel or black steel act as the chimney cover that prevent downdrafts and protect the chimney against rain and animal invasions. Chimney Dampers close the fireplace chimneys when they are not in use, whereas Chimney flashings provide strength and waterproofing to the chimneys. Stainless steel, cast-in place (a thick layer of cement-like material), aluminum, and terracotta chimney liners create a smooth path for drafting and improve the performance of fireplace chimneys. The cleanout doors are metal doors, found at the base of the fireplace chimneys, which facilitate easy cleaning of ash pit.
The design and size of fireplace chimneys can affect the performance of fireplaces. A good diameter and height is needed for the proper combustion of fuels. Further, the fireplace chimneys must be tall enough to allow a smooth airflow.
In order to avoid the risk of chimney fires, the fireplace chimneys must be cleaned at least once in a year. This will also prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Fireplaces provides detailed information on Fireplaces, Outdoor Fireplaces, Fireplace Chimneys, Gas Fireplaces and more. Fireplaces is affiliated with Wood Fireplace Mantels .
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton
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Fireplace Accessories - Things You Need
By Daniel Roshard
Fireplaces are becoming extremely popular, not so much for heating the home, but for recreational purposes. This popularity is providing an explosion of fireplace accessories, equipment and safety equipment. A visit to any home improvement store will reveal an almost mind blowing array of choices that are available for fireplaces today. So, how do you choose, how do you know what you need and what is essentially fluff?
There are some items that are a must to have if you are using a fireplace in any capacity. These fireplace accessories include; a wood cradle, heat resistant gloves, a fireplace screen and pokers to name a few. Great, now you know what you need, but what exactly are they for and how do you know which ones are the best picks for you?
A wood cradle is an important fireplace accessory if you are carrying your wood through your house before it reaches the fireplace. This nifty little device is available in a variety of styles, colors and materials. It does just as the name suggests, it is a place to store the wood until it is burned. Because it has a cradle shape, it keeps the annoying little pieces of bark that falls off of the wood from becoming embedded in the flooring that surrounds the fireplace.
The next set of essential fireplace accessories falls into the all important category of safety. When dealing with fire, safety should be the first concern. Using fireplace accessories such as gloves and pokers will help you to keep your hands, arms and fingers safe when working with the fire. While the fireplace screen keeps people, especially kids and pets a safe distance from the fire.
A good place to find a selection of fireplace accessories is at a home improvement store. They generally have a large enough assortment of supplies to give you a choice, but not so many as to confuse you. However, if you are looking for both selection and a knowledgeable staff, visit a fireplace specialty store. These stores are staffed with people who can answer any of you questions on which gloves protect the best to what kind of firewood burns hottest.
Another great way to decide which fireplace accessories interest you the most is to visit friends and family that have active fireplaces and see what they are using. Don�t be afraid to ask if you can build a fire with their tools and equipment, get a feel of working with the accessories before you purchase your own.
While burning wood and building fires is fun, please don�t neglect fireplace accessories that are used for safety reasons, these are what you will be happy you purchased when you really need them.
A nice Fire Place is just what you need to add character and warmth to your home this winter. Discover fireplaces designs, plans and different kinds at Daniel Roshard�s Fireplaces Accessories and Fireplace site http://fireplace.advice-tips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Roshard