With the growing trend in restoring to use those fireplaces that have been bricked or boarded up, it is important that these restored fireplaces and chimneys are working efficiently. For wood or coal burning fires to burn well, a good supply of air is required along with a chimney to expel the hot exhaust gases and smoke. Also the fuel should be held in a grate clear of the hearth floor allowing full circulation of the air and waste ash to fall through, so as not to stifle the fire. If the chimney or flue is inadequate or the flow of air insufficient, the fire will not function effectively.

In his thesis on the principles of fireplace design published in1799, Count Rumford emphasized the importance of the size of the flue compared with the size of the fireplace opening. He recommended that the cross-sectional area of the flue should be about a tenth of the size of the opening. However, fireplaces tended to be smaller after the mid nineteenth century. Modern flue liner manufacturers favor a ratio of one to seven, and there are sizing charts published that give details of current standards.

If your fire smokes or won't burn properly, see if opening a window improves matters. If it does, you need better ventilation in the room. One solution is to install a window vent, although this may cause a troublesome cross draft. A much more efficient form of ventilation is either a single ducted vent set into the floor in front of the fireplace, or twin ducted vents set into the floor or external walls on each side of the chimney breast.

When wood and coal are burned, flammable gases, tarry substances, acids and dust are given off. However, because domestic stoves are relatively inefficient not all of these substances are consumed. Instead, they rise up the chimney and some of them condense on the inside of the flue. Unburned carbon combines with these tars and acids creating soot; which builds up over a period of time thus reducing the size of the flue. It is important to have regularly used chimneys swept at least twice a year, ideally before, during and at the end of the heating season and the local trade directories contain details of fully qualified and suitably insured sweeps. A soot laden flue is a fire hazard, since the unburned elements of the soot can ignite, causing a chimney fire which can reach high temperatures and damage the chimney.

If a flue is too large, its size can be reduced to improve its efficiency by the fitting of a liner. A variety of methods and materials are used, including flue liners made of flexible stainless steel, ceramic, lightweight concrete sections, or concrete cast in situ. Other ways of reducing the fireplace opening in order to improve fire efficiency is to raise the level of the hearth or to fit a baffle across the top of the opening. If raising the hearth level or adding a baffle are not practical or unsightly then it may be worth asking a fireplace specialist whether fitting a metal smoke hood or canopy in the opening is the best solution.

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A fireplace in your home can be a fantastic, stylish and functional piece. However, they can also pose some safety and health risks if you don't perform some basic upkeep. The chimney or flue is where your fireplace vents the smoke as well as the harmful carbon monoxide gases that it produces. The only one type that this would not be required for is the electric and ventless fireplaces.

The ventless gas or gel burning fireplace has been designed to vent right back in the room so they do not require a chimney or vented duct. They are attractive to many homeowners because of the fact that they can be placed almost anywhere in the house. The only requirement is a gas fuel source. No fuel source is needed if you're using a gel burning fireplace. The potential is there for them to cause a build up of carbon monoxide gas that could be fatal. The technology continues to get better, so they have solved many of the past problems.

With the more traditional wood burning fireplaces, as well as the pellet and wood burning stoves, keeping the chimney or vented duct clear and clean is essential. The wood that your fireplace burns, leaves behind residues and debris that over the course of time can start to affect the air flow. When they build up to much, or build up to fast, the gases and smoke will have no where to go, so they will be released back into your house.

You can't miss the smoke if it starts to flow back into the room, but you can't see or smell the deadly carbon monoxide gases. Once it has reached the proper ratios in the air, carbon monoxide can cause vomiting, light headedness and even death. So take your routine maintenance very seriously to avoid a possible catastrophe.

When you move into a new house with a fireplace, don't always assume that the venting or chimney is working the way it should be. If for some reason maybe the previous owner had to seal it off due to birds nesting, and / or the birds entering the home via the chimney. If this is the case then you'll most likely have to get a professional over to asses the situation. It's always a good idea anyways to get someone that can give your entire fireplace a checkup to be sure that everything is in proper working order.

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On a cold day, there's nothing better than warming yourself next to a glowing fireplace. While wood burning fireplaces are the traditional standard, gas fireplaces have increased in popularity in recent years. They have numerous benefits, including price and safety, but are not right for all homes. Here are a few reasons to purchase (or avoid) a gas burning fireplace.

Comparatively Inexpensive


When compared to wood burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces are incredibly inexpensive. Traditionally, fireplaces required a lot of space and a frame of non-flammable materials, such as stone or brick. The most popular type of gas fireplace, the direct-vent, does not require the installation of a new chimney. Instead, these are installed by a Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) professional. The only special considerations needed are the ability to run the vent and the availability of a gas line. Additionally, natural gas is typically less expensive than wood.

Ease of Use


Gas fireplaces are a dramatic improvement over wood burning fireplaces. Rather than needed to provide a steady stream of dry wood, gas models can be ignited via a switch or remote control. Unless there is no gas available, a well maintained gas fireplace will always light without needing to be stoked or primed. They don't require starter materials or starting logs.

Variability of Design


Direct-vent gas fireplaces can be placed against a wall like a traditional fireplace, directly into the wall or in the middle of a room. Anywhere a HVAC professional can run a vent and a gas line, a gas fireplace can be installed. Because of the availability of installation options, gas fireplaces are excellent for integration into an existing d?r. If your redecorate, there are a wide variety of fireplace designs that can be implemented to update the installation. Many home improvement and decorating companies offer professionals that offer advice on how to remodel a fireplace, and can often refer you to a local contractor that specializes in the field.

Cleaner and More Efficient


Because they do not use wood, gas fireplaces do not need to be regularly cleaned. There are no ash or residual materials left in the fire box after use. While the vent should be checked annually to ensure there are no blockages, there is no need for a chimney sweep or other yearly cleanings to remove soot and debris.

Less Realistic


One of the largest draw backs of gas fireplaces is the flame. When compared to a real burning log, the flame produced by a gas fireplace is not as full and realistic. They also do not provide the same scent, which many people feel is a benefit of wood burning fireplaces.

More complicated


Gas fireplaces as much more complicated that their wood burning cousins. They require annual checks on the starter, thermostat and vent to ensure safe and proper functionality. These maintenance checks can be less expensive than visits from a chimney sweep, but the increased complexity of gas fireplaces also allows for more technical failures and potential repair bills.

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A fireplace connects to something deep within people. Naturally, they can be used for heating. But heating up a home is only part of what a fireside can supply.

Some people use their hearth as a way to add to the decor of the room without even lighting them. A fireplace in the room instantly makes it feel cozier and more comfortable. No matter what the interior design of your home, there are styles and designs that will fit perfectly. Whether you want something with a more traditional or modern feel, there are many options. You can even find ones that can be put in the center of your room.
How a fireplace is powered and does its job of heating also varies. Of course, you can go for the traditional one that burns wood. There is nothing like an open fire to make you feel warm and cozy. Alternatively, electric or gas fireplaces are much simpler when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.

Accessories for your fireplace can be purchased for both their function as well as for their form. Some of these are the traditional tools that you need for a wood-burning unit. A fireplace looks more natural with these types of accessories. These can include shovels, bellows, pokers and tongs.

Another accessory that is traditional and an important item whatever type you have is the fire screen. They do complete the look of the hearth. But they also make the heating more efficient. And, perhaps most importantly, they help to protect your children and your pets from the heat.

You may also want an outdoor fireplace for spending time on your patio when the evenings get chilly. Just start up the fire when the sun sets. You will be able to appreciate the sky and the night air without getting cold.
Outdoor fireplaces also come in different varieties. One, which is very common, is the chiminea. These types are used for small fires and are very mobile. There are ones for larger fires such as grated cylinders. Or there are also outdoor fireplaces that are permanent and these can be designed in many ways.

Whether you want an indoor or outdoor fireplace, or even both, there are many to choose from. They are available in a wide range of budgets, sizes and styles. It is easy to find ones that provide just the right for your patio and for your home.

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Fireplace kits require regular maintenance to ensure high efficiency and safety. The hole at the top of the chimneys is covered by a chimney cap that prevents external matter from entering. This cap must be replaced in case it is damaged or missing.

For fireplace kits, an effective way to make sure that the outer mortar between the bricks is intact is by shining a flashlight down the chimney to look at the mortar inside. Crumbling mortar must be replaced. Metal chimneys should not consist of dented or rusted metal parts screws should not be missing.

It is a good idea to clean chimneys at frequent intervals as there may be deposits of creosote that can cause a dangerous chimney fire. Creosote is a hard and crust like produced during the incomplete combustion of wood. Soot too is a flammable deposit that needs to be removed if deposited on the chimney walls. If this deposit reaches a depth of about 1/8 inch, the chimney must be cleaned to remove these deposits.

It should always be kept in mind that fireplace kits should not be used as furnaces. Fireplaces should be used for short duration fire (approximately five hours). Fireplace coals can remain hot enough to start a fire up to three days after burning. Thus vacuum should never be used to clean up the ashes as there is a possibility that live coals may remain in those ashes. If there is smoke in the house even after eliminating the chimney debris, make sure the damper is open. If there is a large amount of smoke coming out of the chimney, it indicates that the wood is not burning completely. These are just some of the safety guidelines that a home owner should practice when it comes to fireplace kits.

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There are several things you can do when fireplace decorating, which can have a dramatic effect on the look of the room while enhancing the value of your home.  Let's explore various ways to bring your fireplace to life.

The first thing that should be done is to clean the years of soot and grime build-up off the brick.  Once you clear the cavity of grates, andirons, etc., the bricks should be scrubbed with a heavy-bristled brush and a scouring powder with bleach.  The position is awkward and you won't be able to stay in a good working position for very long.  Take breaks if you start to feel achy.

The smoke and soot should come off fairly easily, but if stains persist, try adding vinegar.  A stronger solution can be made by adding muriatic acid.  This is dissolved in water - 10 parts water to 1 part acid.  There is a ready-mixed solution called Brick-Anew.  You should be able to find this product at your local hardware store.

Once the bricks are cleaned, you might consider painting the bricks.  This is a very inexpensive fireplace decorating solution.  Any reputable paint store will be able to help you select a color.

When buying your paint, be sure to choose an interior latex primer for the base coat and a 100% acrylic latex paint for the topcoat.  Satin, flat, or semi-gloss will all work - your preference.  Latex is good for painting brick because it allows the porous brick surface to breathe.  This will minimize future fireplace decorating problems.

Turning to the outside of the fireplace, there are several things you can do which will make a radical change to the appearance of your fireplace.   Once again, painting (or staining) of the outer bricks and wood components is the least expensive thing to do. 

Since these outer surfaces are so much more visible than the fireplace cavity, you have to choose colors that will complement the rest of the room.  If you decide to use two colors, the item with the lighter color will be highlighted and seem more prominent. 

When decorating the "fireplace," consider the area above the mantel as well as below it.  Hanging a tapestry or some impressive artwork will be very effective in making the fireplace the focal point of the room.  Since the advent of thin screen TVs, many people hang them over the fireplace.  This solves the problem of having 2 focal points and not having a clear direction for the seating in the room.

In a traditional setting, a wood back panel will accent a painting mounted upon it.  Direct lighting onto the painting is very important.  Pay attention to paintings with lighting shining directly onto them, and notice the difference to paintings without the lighting.  The lighting makes a BIG difference.  If you choose to box out the area above the fireplace, you could add a crown molding at the ceiling as well. 

One of the more costly fireplace decorating options, but one of the most rewarding, is the total replacement of the fireplace mantle.  Adding a new wood mantle to match the decor of your room can do wonders to change the room's atmosphere.

If you have access to natural gas or propane gas, you could opt to buy the gas log components.  If you're tired of buying wood and dealing with the mess, this is your answer.  These gas sets can include a venting system which will blow hot air into the room, making these units much more efficient than traditional fireplaces.

Fireplace screens come in a variety of looks and finishes.  But I recommend buying a pair of fireplace doors instead.  These come with inner screens for safety, look much neater, and keep the cold air away from the warm air. 

The initial cost of the doors is higher, and the glass will need occasional cleaning.  But the doors give you a better look and greater insulating efficiency.   Whatever you decide, have fun doing it.

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Firewood Racks

You've probably heard of a log holder and you've probably heard of a firewood rack. But do you know what the difference is? Well, a Firewood rack is typically an outdoor wood rack used to store extra wood for your fireplace. Firewood racks vary in size, style, and make. Often they're handmade and simply used to keep logs organized in the garage, shed, or yard. Some are ornate and made from wrought iron, and are intended to be functional and decorative.

Log Holders

Log holders, on the other hand, are typically indoor racks. They are more decorative but also very durable. A log rack is often intended for indoor use and can only hold a limited amount of wood.

However, when it comes to firewood racks and holders, the terms are often used interchangeably. A firewood rack can technically be called a firewood holder as well. The term firewood rack is typically associated with a more rugged, functional style of rack rather than a decorative holder. But you'll still find decorative log holders that are called firewood racks. So if you're looking for a firewood rack, be sure to check under log holders as well.

How to Make Your Own Firewood Rack

If you'd rather make your own firewood rack, here's some advice on how to make one out of wood (to make one out of metal would require welding, which can be quite tricky)

Materials

To make a firewood rack, you need:

* Durable wood
* Nails
* Saw
* Hammer

Constructing Your Firewood Rack

Follow these steps to construct your very own firewood rack:

Step 1: Figure out how large you need your rack to be

Step 2: Establish how many sections you want your firewood rack to have (1 main section vs. 2 separate section to pile wood separately)

Step 3: Establish measurements (height and length)

Step 4: Cut wood accordingly (it's wise to use durable wood, not plywood or pressboard. You need to use materials that can withstand the weight of solid wood logs. Also, when cutting your wood, also cut crossbeam pieces. This will help keep your rack sturdy)

Step 5: Nail the wood pieces together

Step 6: Add metal L braces to increase durability (specific L braces necessary will depend on the design and thickness of your individual pieces.

Step 7: Test the strength of your firewood rack (grab a corner and see if it has too much give. Remember, your rack needs to be as strong as possible).

Step 8: Finish your rack with a layer of lacquer or other varnish (this will help the wood of your rack last longer)

Step 9: Establish a place to put your firewood rack (i.e. garage, shed, barn, outdoors)

Step 10: Put your firewood in the rack

As you can see, building your own firewood rack does take some time and know-how. If you're pretty good with wood working, putting together your own fireplace rack should be an enjoyable project.

If you don't currently have a fireplace mantel and surround, please check your local building codes or fire safety department for the minimum distance from the fireplace opening to the mantel and surround.

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