Submitted by: genwright
Are you thinking of replacing or redesigning your fireplace? Many homeowners would like to give their fireplaces a face lift. However, they are afraid that the cost would be tremendous. Hence, they keep putting it off. Well, the good news is, new fireplace designs doesn't have to cost a bomb. There are many different types of fireplaces around. Surely, there will be one or two that will fit within your budget.
Luxurious fireplace designs.
Luxurious fireplace designs usually cost more than other types of designs. If budget is not a concern, you may consider giving these designs a try. A luxurious design usually means that the design is rare or require a certain level of skill to create. Usually, they are custom made, and are therefore more costly. They are also made out of better materials such as marble or other costly stone. Such designs are mostly for those with exquisite personal tastes.
Mid range fireplace designs.
Mid range fireplace designs are perhaps the most popular. There is a balance between price and quality. They are cheaper compared to higher end designs because the designs are usually widely adopted, therefore bringing the cost down. You can easily browse a fireplace design catalog and choose from dozens of ready made designs. These designs are proven to be popular among many homeowners. They are usually made from widely available materials such as limestone or granite. The designs are not as complicated as other higher end designs, but you can expect the fireplace to be durable and last for many years.
Low budget fireplace designs.
If you have a budget constrain, your choices may be narrowed. This may be a good thing because it actually makes your decision making process easier. Low budget doesn't mean your new fireplace has to be of low quality. Modern technology has enabled many homeowners to replace older fireplaces with more energy efficient fireplaces.
These are usually self installed fireplaces. You can easily buy one from a local shopping mall. Modern fireplaces are powered by electricity instead of burning materials such as wood. Simply flick a switch, and you get to enjoy the heat. To complete the visual representation of a real fireplace, some electric fireplaces even come with fire simulations. A holographic fire image (not a real fire) can be displayed while the heat is on. Strictly speaking, it's probably not a real fireplace, but it works!
If a simulated fire doesn't work for you, and you still want a real fireplace even when you have a budget constrain, perhaps the best thing to do is to choose a design that is simple. A simple design is usually more classic. In other words, they never go out of style. Keep things simple, choose a basic fireplace design, and it may just be within your budget to get a new fireplace.
(Article Source: Ad-Matrix.net)
Monday, January 26, 2009
Friday, January 9, 2009
Fireplace Cleaning and Maintenance
People experience pleasure having their own fireplaces in their own homes. It is considered a central appliance in a room due to the warmth and comfort it provides. But to keep it working that way, people need to do a bit of effort to keep their fireplaces working well and they should also make sure to remember fireplace cleaning and maintenance tips.
The fireplace needs regular care and clean-up to ensure a secure and cost-effective fire. Creosote, a combustible tar-like matter that builds up in the chimney and flue, should be cleaned out by a professional to do away with at least one possible fire hazard. The fireplace and its accessories must be given routine cleaning all through the wood-burning season to eradicate a buildup of ashes, soot, and creosote tars.
To maintain the efficiency of fireplaces, cleaning and maintenance should be kept regular. During yearly inspections, the chimney should be examined for damage, buildup and proximity to combustibles. The place around the chimney and the fireplace must be kept tidy and free from debris. The flue should be checked for obstructions like birds'nests, and overhanging branches must also be cut. The fireplace, in general, must be cleaned when necessary. It must be inspected to make sure that there is sufficient protective linings and smoke ducts and that the chimney should be in good condition. The fireplace must likewise be kept clean so it would appear more pleasant to use and also to make it a better attribute for guests and visitors.
Some tips for fireplace cleaning and maintenance include the following:
1.To keep the brass shiny, a toothbrush and Worcestershire sauce should be used. The brass knobs and the door or metal parts around the fireplace can be cleaned by scrubbing since this would keep the area tidy and gleaming.
2.Doors should be open for venting. Avoid fire that burns longer than five hours.
3.To avoid hot embers from jumping onto the carpet, the screen should be kept close. Place a non-flammable rug directly on the fireplace. This is to avoid sparks from igniting the carpet or wooden floor.
4.Do not leave the fire unattended, especially when there are small children.
5.Use a chimney cap to avoid animal nesting, water damage or debris. This is also to avoid obstructing the chimney.
6.Clean out the firebox once a week. To help coals heat faster and to retain their heat longer, an inch of ash must be kept in the bottom to work as an insulator. Before the ash is taken out from the firebox, open the damper to avoid ashes spreading out. Do not use a vacuum cleaner in cleaning out the ash.
7.Use a brick cleaner when cleaning a brick fireplace. Use lemon oil every month or two to clean exterior slate hearths.
8.Clean gas logs once a month using a soft bristle brush. Avoid cleaning them right after a fire. periodically remove the excess ashes and unburned logs from the fire.
These are just some of the ways to ensure that the fireplace performs at its best. In addition, it's always an advantage to follow the fireplace cleaning and maintenance pointers religiously.
The fireplace needs regular care and clean-up to ensure a secure and cost-effective fire. Creosote, a combustible tar-like matter that builds up in the chimney and flue, should be cleaned out by a professional to do away with at least one possible fire hazard. The fireplace and its accessories must be given routine cleaning all through the wood-burning season to eradicate a buildup of ashes, soot, and creosote tars.
To maintain the efficiency of fireplaces, cleaning and maintenance should be kept regular. During yearly inspections, the chimney should be examined for damage, buildup and proximity to combustibles. The place around the chimney and the fireplace must be kept tidy and free from debris. The flue should be checked for obstructions like birds'nests, and overhanging branches must also be cut. The fireplace, in general, must be cleaned when necessary. It must be inspected to make sure that there is sufficient protective linings and smoke ducts and that the chimney should be in good condition. The fireplace must likewise be kept clean so it would appear more pleasant to use and also to make it a better attribute for guests and visitors.
Some tips for fireplace cleaning and maintenance include the following:
1.To keep the brass shiny, a toothbrush and Worcestershire sauce should be used. The brass knobs and the door or metal parts around the fireplace can be cleaned by scrubbing since this would keep the area tidy and gleaming.
2.Doors should be open for venting. Avoid fire that burns longer than five hours.
3.To avoid hot embers from jumping onto the carpet, the screen should be kept close. Place a non-flammable rug directly on the fireplace. This is to avoid sparks from igniting the carpet or wooden floor.
4.Do not leave the fire unattended, especially when there are small children.
5.Use a chimney cap to avoid animal nesting, water damage or debris. This is also to avoid obstructing the chimney.
6.Clean out the firebox once a week. To help coals heat faster and to retain their heat longer, an inch of ash must be kept in the bottom to work as an insulator. Before the ash is taken out from the firebox, open the damper to avoid ashes spreading out. Do not use a vacuum cleaner in cleaning out the ash.
7.Use a brick cleaner when cleaning a brick fireplace. Use lemon oil every month or two to clean exterior slate hearths.
8.Clean gas logs once a month using a soft bristle brush. Avoid cleaning them right after a fire. periodically remove the excess ashes and unburned logs from the fire.
These are just some of the ways to ensure that the fireplace performs at its best. In addition, it's always an advantage to follow the fireplace cleaning and maintenance pointers religiously.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
A winter wonderland — of safety
Household heating/cooking implements can cause havoc if misused
By Jim Walker
I know. You shelled out good money for that fresh-cut Christmas tree only a week ago, and you'll be darned if you're going to take it down before Jan. 2.
Understood. But remember to keep it watered and keep it far away from any sources of heat, and don't leave the house or go to bed with the tree lights on - same as before Christmas.
During the remaining holiday season, and for the rest of the winter, you must be extra vigilant about safety inside your home.
With everyone cozily tucked in, the windows sealed up to keep out the cold, and fireplaces and space heaters probably being employed to warm things up, there is increased danger from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you're burning seasonal candles there's even more possibility of something going wrong.
We'll offer some handy tips for winter safety from the Home Safety Council - but first, let's get a reinforcement from an expert. Los Angeles County Fire Captain Tom Robertson was kind enough to take a Christmas Eve interview by telephone from local Station 126. "Most of our fires over the holidays are from candles and from fireplaces burning too hot," he said. He went on to emphasize these and other safety issues.
Space heaters
"Be sure your space heater has a ‘UL Approved' stamp or sticker. That means the appliance has gone through a specific safety test and is approved," Robertson said. "And keep the heater away from the Christmas tree or any other combustibles."
He emphasized that the main hazard with space heaters is from Christmas trees. Even if they are kept in water, the trees are probably drying out by now and are ready to burn.
Candles
"Make sure your candles are out when you go to bed," Robertson said. "People light them for a party and, afterward, forget to put them out."
He added that candles should always be kept away from decorations, curtains and packages. The same, of course, goes for fireplaces and space heaters.
The Home Safety Council encourages families to enjoy holiday candles while always keeping fire safety in mind:
* Make sure an adult is in the room and paying attention whenever you light a candle. Blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room.
* Do not permit children to keep or use candles or incense in their rooms. Candles should only be used when a sober adult is present and awake.
* Never use lighted candles on or near a Christmas tree or other evergreens.
* Keep candles at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including other decorations and wrapping paper.
* Always use stable, nonflammable candle holders with a hurricane glass to protect the open flame.
* Place candles where they will not be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of pets and young children.
* If you have children in your home, store candles, matches and lighters out of their sight and reach in a locked cabinet.
* To eliminate the risk of an open candle flame, use battery-powered candles whenever possible, especially when you combine candles with greenery or other decorations.
Source: www.homesafetycouncil.org
Fireplaces
Robertson said that people should be sure to keep their fireplace screens up and/or the glass doors closed. You never know when a spark may pop out of the fire.
Beyond that he noted that fireplaces installed in newer Southern California homes are not really designed to be sources of heat.
They're more for visual aesthetics and atmosphere. "Make sure your fireplace is designed for the amount of wood you put in there," he said. Those unfamiliar with our local fireplaces may stoke the fire up too hot, which can lead to the ducts getting too hot and starting fires in attics.
Smoke and CO detectors
Robertson said that having properly operating smoke detectors in your home is a must.
When it comes to carbon monoxide, he offered this advice. "If you are concerned with carbon monoxide, the easiest thing to do is crack a window." But he added that if having a carbon monoxide detector eases your concerns, by all means use one.
CO Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is difficult to detect because it is odorless and invisible. As a result, it is known as "the silent killer." According to the CDC, 450 people die and nearly 21,000 CO exposures occur each year.
CO is produced by fuel-burning appliances and equipment in our homes.
If you have heating, cooking or power equipment that uses fuels such as oil, natural gas, coal, wood, propane, gasoline, etc., then your home is at risk for potential CO poisoning. Homes with attached garages are also at risk, because vehicles left running in the garage can cause CO to seep into the home.
CO poisoning can be prevented by proper care and use of household equipment. CO alarms can provide early detection if CO leaks or accumulation occurs. Both are important for your safety.
If you suspect CO poisoning in your home, call the appropriate responding agency, usually your local fire department or 9-1-1. Keep all emergency response numbers posted by every telephone.
CO alarms are different from smoke alarms, and have different functions. CO alarms do not provide early warning of a fire.
Smoke alarms do not provide early warning of CO exposure. Your home needs CO and smoke alarm protection.
Symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to symptoms of the flu and can include headache, dizziness, nausea and shortness of breath.
To distinguish between symptoms of flu and CO poisoning - if you feel better after leaving home and then worse again when you return, it may be CO exposure causing the symptoms.
If your CO alarm sounds, check to see if it is plugged in properly, or if battery-powered, check the battery to be sure the device is operating. If you suspect that CO is leaking in your home, follow these steps:
Open windows and doors to ventilate the rooms, or in severe cases of CO exposure, evacuate the home.
Call to report that you suspect CO is accumulating. Usually the appropriate agency to call is the fire department or 9-1-1.
* Seek immediate medical treatment for anyone who has severe symptoms.
Follow the advice of the responding agency before re-entering your home, and quickly obtain repairs as needed.
By Jim Walker
I know. You shelled out good money for that fresh-cut Christmas tree only a week ago, and you'll be darned if you're going to take it down before Jan. 2.
Understood. But remember to keep it watered and keep it far away from any sources of heat, and don't leave the house or go to bed with the tree lights on - same as before Christmas.
During the remaining holiday season, and for the rest of the winter, you must be extra vigilant about safety inside your home.
With everyone cozily tucked in, the windows sealed up to keep out the cold, and fireplaces and space heaters probably being employed to warm things up, there is increased danger from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you're burning seasonal candles there's even more possibility of something going wrong.
We'll offer some handy tips for winter safety from the Home Safety Council - but first, let's get a reinforcement from an expert. Los Angeles County Fire Captain Tom Robertson was kind enough to take a Christmas Eve interview by telephone from local Station 126. "Most of our fires over the holidays are from candles and from fireplaces burning too hot," he said. He went on to emphasize these and other safety issues.
Space heaters
"Be sure your space heater has a ‘UL Approved' stamp or sticker. That means the appliance has gone through a specific safety test and is approved," Robertson said. "And keep the heater away from the Christmas tree or any other combustibles."
He emphasized that the main hazard with space heaters is from Christmas trees. Even if they are kept in water, the trees are probably drying out by now and are ready to burn.
Candles
"Make sure your candles are out when you go to bed," Robertson said. "People light them for a party and, afterward, forget to put them out."
He added that candles should always be kept away from decorations, curtains and packages. The same, of course, goes for fireplaces and space heaters.
The Home Safety Council encourages families to enjoy holiday candles while always keeping fire safety in mind:
* Make sure an adult is in the room and paying attention whenever you light a candle. Blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room.
* Do not permit children to keep or use candles or incense in their rooms. Candles should only be used when a sober adult is present and awake.
* Never use lighted candles on or near a Christmas tree or other evergreens.
* Keep candles at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including other decorations and wrapping paper.
* Always use stable, nonflammable candle holders with a hurricane glass to protect the open flame.
* Place candles where they will not be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of pets and young children.
* If you have children in your home, store candles, matches and lighters out of their sight and reach in a locked cabinet.
* To eliminate the risk of an open candle flame, use battery-powered candles whenever possible, especially when you combine candles with greenery or other decorations.
Source: www.homesafetycouncil.org
Fireplaces
Robertson said that people should be sure to keep their fireplace screens up and/or the glass doors closed. You never know when a spark may pop out of the fire.
Beyond that he noted that fireplaces installed in newer Southern California homes are not really designed to be sources of heat.
They're more for visual aesthetics and atmosphere. "Make sure your fireplace is designed for the amount of wood you put in there," he said. Those unfamiliar with our local fireplaces may stoke the fire up too hot, which can lead to the ducts getting too hot and starting fires in attics.
Smoke and CO detectors
Robertson said that having properly operating smoke detectors in your home is a must.
When it comes to carbon monoxide, he offered this advice. "If you are concerned with carbon monoxide, the easiest thing to do is crack a window." But he added that if having a carbon monoxide detector eases your concerns, by all means use one.
CO Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is difficult to detect because it is odorless and invisible. As a result, it is known as "the silent killer." According to the CDC, 450 people die and nearly 21,000 CO exposures occur each year.
CO is produced by fuel-burning appliances and equipment in our homes.
If you have heating, cooking or power equipment that uses fuels such as oil, natural gas, coal, wood, propane, gasoline, etc., then your home is at risk for potential CO poisoning. Homes with attached garages are also at risk, because vehicles left running in the garage can cause CO to seep into the home.
CO poisoning can be prevented by proper care and use of household equipment. CO alarms can provide early detection if CO leaks or accumulation occurs. Both are important for your safety.
If you suspect CO poisoning in your home, call the appropriate responding agency, usually your local fire department or 9-1-1. Keep all emergency response numbers posted by every telephone.
CO alarms are different from smoke alarms, and have different functions. CO alarms do not provide early warning of a fire.
Smoke alarms do not provide early warning of CO exposure. Your home needs CO and smoke alarm protection.
Symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to symptoms of the flu and can include headache, dizziness, nausea and shortness of breath.
To distinguish between symptoms of flu and CO poisoning - if you feel better after leaving home and then worse again when you return, it may be CO exposure causing the symptoms.
If your CO alarm sounds, check to see if it is plugged in properly, or if battery-powered, check the battery to be sure the device is operating. If you suspect that CO is leaking in your home, follow these steps:
Open windows and doors to ventilate the rooms, or in severe cases of CO exposure, evacuate the home.
Call to report that you suspect CO is accumulating. Usually the appropriate agency to call is the fire department or 9-1-1.
* Seek immediate medical treatment for anyone who has severe symptoms.
Follow the advice of the responding agency before re-entering your home, and quickly obtain repairs as needed.
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