What are the parts of a fireplace&chimney?
Parts Of A Fireplace & Chimney Explained (With Diagrams And Real Pictures) 1 Parts Of A Fireplace Diagram 2 Anatomy Of A Fireplace (Labeled) 3 Firebox 4 Hearth 5 Fireplace Face 6 Surround 7 Back Panel 8 Mantel 9 Lintel 10 Chimney Throat More items...
What is the bottom of a fireplace called?
“Hearth” refers to the bottom wall of the firebox and the protective stone or brick foundation in front of them, which protects the floor from escaping embers. An open-hearth fireplace typically has a decorative exterior facade, called a mantle, which often includes a decorative shelf at the top.
What is the front of a firebox called?
The front of the firebox is called the fireplace opening, where glass doors can sometimes be found, or where a fireplace screen would be located.
What is a fireback plate?
Firebacks are heavy iron or steel plates sized in proportion to fireplaces and are placed against the wall at the back of the fireplace. They are usually embossed with vibrant imaging that includes Victorian floral motifs, Roman gladiators, coats-of-arms or even historical scenes.
What's the back of a fireplace called?
Nowadays we tend to refer to the mantel and mantel shelf as simply, the mantelpiece. It originated in medieval times when firepits started to be built into a homes living areas to help keep everyone warm (the mantel served as a hood that would prevent smoke from entering the room, diverting it back into the chimney).
What are the parts of a fireplace surround called?
The fireplace mantel comes in two major parts: the lower mantel and the optional overmantel. The main parts of a lower mantel include the shelf, legs, header, inner trim, and hearth. The main parts of the overmantel are crown and wall cladding tiles.
What is a back panel in a fireplace?
A fireplace back panel is a type of decorative wall covering that goes on the back of your fireplace. It can serve as an aesthetically pleasing addition to your home and help you save money by reducing heating costs in winter.
What is the hatch in a fireplace called?
An ash pit is a hole in your firebox in which old ashes can be placed. Its convenient location allows you to sweep in any ashes and embers, then seal them in by closing a small door. Ash pits are designed to withstand the heat from your fireplace while being easily accessible for the homeowner.
What is the parts of a fireplace?
The firebox in my living room fireplace is made of brick that is painted black to suit the other parts of the fireplace. At the base of the firebox is the hearth, and at the top of the firebox is the throat of the chimney, where a damper can be found in some fireplaces.
What are the parts of a brick fireplace called?
Here are the basic components (from the bottom up) that make up your masonry fireplace and chimney, so they can function efficiently and safely:Foundation. ... Footing. ... Ash Pit. ... Ash Dump. ... Also called an inner hearth, this is the area in which you build and light the fire. ... Fireplace Doors. ... Hearth. ... Fireplace Face.More items...•
What is fireplace back hearth?
A back hearth is the section of a fireplace hearth that is actually inside the chamber where the fire will be built; is the essentially the floor of the inner hearth. A back hearth is typically made of concrete, though it can be made from other non-combustible materials such as brick or stone.
How do you replace firebox panels?
0:4610:05Firebox Refractory Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThen we're going to go ahead and cut the new panel to size we're going to install the new panel. AndMoreThen we're going to go ahead and cut the new panel to size we're going to install the new panel. And back and then we're going to reinstall the sides.
What is an ash box?
An ash pit is a compartment at the base of the fireplace that holds fireplace ashes. This compartment, usually a cavity surrounded by cinder blocks or concrete, is reached through a small metal access door mounted flush in the fireplace floor or wall.
What are the parts of a fireplace and chimney?
The following is a little about each of the 7 basic parts of a chimney.1 – Chimney Flue. ... 2 – Chimney Liner. ... 3 – Chimney Cap. ... 4 – Chimney Flashing. ... 5 – Chimney Crown. ... 6 – Damper. ... 7 – Smoke Chamber.
What is the metal trim around a fireplace called?
Andiron: Also known as a Firedog. These metal pieces support the logs inside the fireplace.
What is the thing around a fireplace?
The fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, also known as a chimneypiece, originated in medieval times as a hood that projected over a fire grate to catch the smoke. The term has evolved to include the decorative framework around the fireplace, and can include elaborate designs extending to the ceiling.
How are fireplace surrounds attached?
Many modern fire surrounds use a hidden fireplace fitting bracket. One bracket is fit to the wall, while a corresponding second bracket is screwed to the fire surround. They then simply slip together without the need for any messy looking screws around the edges.
What is the stone around a fireplace called?
Jamb. A fireplace jamb is the bordered area around a fireplace. A jamb, sometimes interchanged with the term slip, may feature two columns connected by a horizontal piece or an arch that goes over the fireplace.
What is a hearth surround called?
Mantel. This is the surround that fits around the fireplace available in cast iron wood limestone or marble in lots of different sizes and shaped we have designs to fit from the most basic front room or to grace the drawing room of a period manor.
What are the two types of fireplaces?
The two major designs are masonry and factory-built (or prefabricated) fireplaces.
What is the purpose of a fireplace?
The most important mechanical purpose of a fireplace is to produce a draft.
How does a fireplace work?
Your fireplace creates a column of heated gas inside of the chimney and as the air rises, more heated air is pulled from the fire after it. This process results in a draft, or a balanced flow of hot gases and smoke, up and out of the fireplace ’s chimney.
Why do you need a damper on a fireplace?
However, while your fireplace is being used, you want to ensure that the damper is open so the smoke can exit out the flue.
What is the best way to prevent smoke from escaping into a room?
When you light a fire inside your house, you are presented with two obvious challenges: how to avoid your house catching fire and how to prevent smoke from escaping into the room. Fortunately, a fireplace solves both of these potential issues. Fireplaces are traditionally made of stone, brick, metal, tile, or a combination, which are all materials that will not burn and it manages smoke by exhausting it out the chimney.
Why is it important to maintain a damper on a fireplace?
Maintaining the damper is crucial to the safe operation of your fireplace. If your damper is broken, smoke cannot escape out of your home. Or, if the damper becomes stuck in the closed or open position, you’ll likely have drafts.
Where is the flue located in a fireplace?
The flue is located at the top of the fireplace and is the vessel through which gases and smoke travel to exit. Flues are typically made out of baked clay, but can also be found in a stainless-steel material. The chimney is what surrounds the flue.
What is the area on the floor just in front of the fireplace?
Hearth : The area on the floor just in front of the fireplace, usually made from bricks or stone. Jamb: One of two vertical pieces that are found on either side of the fireplace opening. Similar to the pieces surrounding the sides of a window frame. Image Credit: Siemasko + Verbridge.
What is the piece that supports the logs in a fireplace?
Andiron: Also known as a Firedog. These metal pieces support the logs inside the fireplace. Image Credit: Gelotte Hommas. Chimney Breast: the piece covering the flue that projects out into a room. Often made of stone or marble, sometimes carved. Image Credit: Graciela Rutkowski.
What is the metal screen that sits in front of the fireplace opening?
Fender: A short and long piece of metal that sits on the hearth to protect the rug or floor from flying sparks. Firescreen: The metal screen that sits in front of the fireplace opening to prevent sparks from flying onto the rug or flooring.
What is a mantel in a fireplace?
Mantle/Mantel: Refers to the framework around the fireplace, especially the piece above the entablature that protrudes out (mantelshelf, mantelpiece).
Where is the entablature on a fireplace?
Entablature: This piece, which is usually found above the fireplace opening, includes the cornice (top), frieze (middle) and architrave (bottom). Often carved out of wood or stone and typically is found below the mantle.
What is a summer piece?
Summer Piece: A metal piece that fits over the fireplace opening. Used in the summer months or when the fireplace isn’t in use.
What is the bracket on a fireplace called?
The bracket or block that projects from the face of a wall, is referred to as the corbel. While physically and visually supporting the elements placed above it, the corbel is a very popular design element for fireplaces.
What is a fireplace surround?
Ultimately, the surround is what makes up all parts of a fireplace in its entirety. The only exception to this would be the firebox itself.
What is a mantel in a fireplace?
Mantel. The mantel is the top horizontal protruding shelf/ledge over a firebox. A fireplace mantel spans the top of a firebox and is often supported by legs; generally the deepest and heaviest section of the fireplace. It can also be floating, supported by corbels, and can appear well above the firebox opening or right in line with the opening.
How long has a fireplace been around?
Fire has been an integral part of humanity since prehistoric times and by extension, fireplace. There may even be evidence of fireplaces as long ago as 300,000 years ago. The modern fireplace came into fashion about a thousand years ago as the fire pit began to be integrated into the living dwelling.
What is the purpose of cladding on a fireplace?
Distinct from the architectural or carved stone of the fireplace, cladding is the flatwork that is used to fill the center of an overmantel, hearth, or any other areas where matching flat stone is combined with carved architectural stone. Cladding may also be used to cover the chimney in some situations .
How deep is a hearth?
A hearth is usually as wide as the firebox and the legs combined. Its depth is strictly circumscribed anywhere from 18 inches to 24 inches. The depth and acceptable materials for the hearth may be governed by local building codes.
Where is the firebox in a fireplace?
Firebox. The firebox is the part of your fireplace that is typically inside of the wall. You usually can’t see much of it – maybe the back wall. This part is part of architecture of the home and actually comes in direct contact with the fire.
What is the area around the opening of a fireplace called?
What Is Behind A Fireplace Surround. The area around the opening of a fireplace is called the fireplace surround, and can be made from a number of different materials including wood, stone or metal.
Why was the back panel removed from a gas fireplace?
The gas fireplace insert and back panel was removed to leave just the open fireplace and hearth visible.
What does a timber fireplace look like?
Here’s what the timber fireplace surround looks like on its own from the front: And here’s what the timber fireplace surround looks like from behind: A fireplace sur round is typically hollow inside to prevent the manufacturers from using materials that wouldn’t have otherwise been seen, as well as keeping the weight down.
Why do we need a fireplace surround?
Fireplace surrounds help to turn an open fireplace into more of a decorative feature of a home than simply a functional one.
What is the surround of a fireplace?
The surround protects the walls around the fireplace and is often topped by a decorative mantel, perfect for hanging Christmas stockings or holding family pictures. The firebox, the interior of the fireplace, contains the fire and collects the smoke.
What are the parts of a traditional fireplace?
The Parts of a Traditional Fireplace. To understand how a traditional fireplace works, you'll need to know about its various components: The hearth is built out of a fireproof material, such as bricks, and extends out beyond the fireplace. The surround protects the walls around the fireplace and is often topped by a decorative mantel, ...
What is the damper on a chimney?
Beneath the smoke shelf is the damper, a movable covering that separates the firebox from the space above. It prevents cold air from moving down into the house when no fire is burning. Some chimneys may also have a chimney damper, which is operated by a cable and closes the chimney at the top to eliminate downdrafts.
What is the smoke chamber in a fireplace?
At the bottom of the smoke chamber is the smoke shelf, which deflects downdrafts and prevents any rain or soot from dropping directly into the fireplace. Beneath the smoke shelf is the damper, a movable covering that separates the firebox from the space above.
What is a chimney flue made of?
Flues are often made of baked clay, but can also be stainless steel. The chimney surrounds the flue, keeping its heat from contacting any flammable building materials that may have been used on the home. The smoke chamber connects the fireplace and the flue.
How to overcome the drawbacks of a fireplace?
The most effective way to overcome the drawbacks of the fireplace is to enclose the fire in a metal box, creating a stove. The sealed wood stove allows you to limit the amount of air entering the firebox to just what the fire needs to burn.
Why does my fireplace rotate?
It may rotate to block wind gusts. Some fireplaces are equipped with an ash dump, an opening with a trap door where you can push the accumulated ashes into a pit below for later cleanout. Fireplace doors can be made of glass or metal. They shut off the air flow when the fire has died down or the fireplace is not in use.
Why use a fireback on a fireplace?
Dating back to the times of our colonial forefathers, firebacks have been used as a protective material that prevents damage to the rear masonry of fireplaces.# N#Burning logs, huge fires and flames that raze for days on end emit a lot of heat which will keep your family warm for longer, but will also damage your rear hearth (). Wall materials such as daub, soft stone and brick tend to get heavily corroded by constant heat, necessitating a fireback to restore dignity to your fireplace.
What is a fireback?
Firebacks are heavy iron or steel plates sized in proportion to fireplaces and are placed against the wall at the back of the fireplace. They are usually embossed with vibrant imaging that includes Victorian floral motifs, Roman gladiators, coats-of-arms or even historical scenes.
How wide should a fireback be?
The fireback should be wide enough to cover the hearth wall but leave just enough space, about 3 to 10 inches of rear wall visible. It should also not be high enough to reach the flue of the opening as it would hinder the drawing of the furnace.
Where is the fireback in France?
A fireplace fireback with firedogs in Clos Lucé castle (Amboise, France).
How does a fireback work?
Firebacks remedy this with both their heat absorption and radiation traits. The iron plates absorb a portion of the heat that may otherwise have been lost and reflects it back into the room, increasing efficiency by up to 50%!
Why are heavy iron plates strategically leaned against the back of the fire?
The heavy iron plates are strategically leaned against the back of the fire, preventing its heat from reaching the rear wall. That way, no matter how bright the fire burns or for how long, the building fabric remains protected.
What is a fireplace?
Fireplaces have been the focal point of most households throughout human history, providing light, heat, hot food, and a central place to rest or entertain guests. In recent years, the options for homeowners have expanded dramatically to include a wide array of fuel-types, structures, visual effects, and other options.
What is an open hearth fireplace?
An indoor open wood-burning fireplace, or “open hearth” fireplace, is the classic image of a fireplace throughout history.
How often should a wood burning stove be inspected?
Like open hearth fireplaces, all wood-burning stoves must be inspected and cleaned regularly, and the catalyst (if any) must be replaced every few years, for safety. Catalytic wood stoves are more difficult to maintain than the simpler non-catalytic stoves.
What is a wood burning stove?
A wood-burning stove is a free-standing, solid steel or cast-iron box, with a metal stove pipe to vent the smoke. They are much more efficient than open-hearth fireplaces and are regulated and labeled for efficiency by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Why are gas fireplaces so popular?
Although less natural and aesthetically pleasing than a wood-burning fireplace, gas fireplaces are increasingly popular, particularly in new construction, due to their efficiency, safety, and lower installation costs.
What is the mantle of a fireplace made of?
The mantle may be made of brick, stone, adobe, concrete, wood, or other materials . Wood burning fireplaces are best used to burn seasoned (aged) hardwood, which burns longer, hotter, and causes less tar buildup in the flue than softwood.
How much does it cost to install a zero clearance fireplace?
They typically range from $1,000-$5,000, before installation. Their operation costs depend on the type of fuel used They should be serviced yearly.
