Choosing a Log Holder For Your Wood Burning Fireplace

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Having a fireplace is definitely a plus for people who live in colder temperatures. And, it can also be an aesthetic highlight in the homes of people who do not have colder temperatures but like the idea of having this addition to the home that induces warmth and family gatherings. There are many accessories that you can use with your fireplace to make it more efficient and friendly. Of course, the log holder is one such accessory, which adds to the appearance of the fireplace, giving the whole area a neater and cleaner look.

A fireplace log holder is used to store wood prior to it being placed in the fire. There are also fireplace carriers and baskets that serve a similar purpose to log holders. In many cases, the firewood holders, carriers and baskets are designed creatively to appeal to the aesthetic eye as well as the functional needs of consumers. Not to mention they safely store the wood until it is ready for use.

If you anticipate that you may be needing wood in a very short time from now, it is a very good idea to have firewood holders at home so you can have your supply of wood ready just when you need it. These holders come in a wide range of sizes, shapes and designs to conform to just about any fireplace you can think of. Bear in mind that some wood burning fireplaces actually require more wood than others, so you would need to get the type of holder that will provide enough wood for your particular fireplace.

Fireplace log holders also keep the wood safe from the ground, where they could potentially be exposed to becoming wet. And of course, once the logs become damp, they serve absolutely no purpose to the fire. The log basket also helps to keep insects and other pests away from the wood and protect it from rotting.

You can find a log carrier for firewood in various materials, including copper, wrought iron, leather and regular iron. It really just depends on what your needs are and what is attractive to you. And when you are not so interested in using your log holder for firewood, you can also simply use it to exhibit a bunch of long stemmed flowers. The firewood holder doubles quite well as a holder for flowers and can contribute to the overall attractiveness of the room in whichever way it is used.

Generally, you can get a log holder from $10 all the way up to $200, depending on the brand as well as the material and the size that you are looking for. And, one of the most popular brands available is Woodland Direct. The manufacturers have been able to create log holders in various designs to suit a wide range of clients.

A log holder is a perfect accompaniment to any fireplace because it allows and offers functionality as well as attractiveness. Consider investing in one if you have a wood-burning fireplace or if even you just want to give the impression or appearance of having one.

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Outdoor Fireplace Safety Tips

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If you are going to better your outdoor living area by installing an outdoor fireplace, you are on the right direction toward comfort and warmth. The idea of your future outdoor fireplace can be easily adjusted to your budget and needs and then objectified. You can install relatively cheap typical fireplace, or on the contrary make a special design and invest a lot of money to be sure that your fireplace will be unique!

While making your fireplace cheap or expensive, commonplace or unique is at you option, there is a thing that should be prioritized and considered carefully. Your safety is a matter of the greatest importance, and must be treated according to its significance. Take into account that the wrong use of outdoor fireplace is a threat not only for you. It can be dangerous for your loved ones.

Here is an accident prevention guide that will tell you main rules of using an outdoor fireplace:

Fire pit, elevated fire pit, chimnea.

From the point of view of safety and comfort, chimnea type of outdoor fireplaces is preferable. Chimnea is associated with better airflow as well, which means less smoke is likely to be irritating you. Elevated fire pits run the risk of being turned over and thus causing injuries to those who is near. Overall, chemnea type of outdoor fireplaces is more safety than other two.

Be attentive!

Don't be careless about what is going on with the fire when you are enjoying yourself in amicable atmosphere of comfort and warmth. Fire is somewhat similar to living beings, or it is better to say that it seems sometimes to have intellect. And this intellect can work against you if you pay no attention to it.

A dangerous situation can happen any time actually: you fireplace can be turned over by pets, strong blow of wind can cause sparks flying around, change of wind direction and other suddenness can make the fire grow uncontrollable.

Study your fire

Anybody is excited when an outdoor fireplace is finally installed. In such moment it is important not to overdo. Your first experience of starting fire in your fireplace should be to some extend cognitive. You should find out in what direction the wind blows, how strong is the wind, how does it influence on the fire and so on.

Don't start fire when the wind is blowing heavily!

Up in arms

Fire is a symbol of comfort and warmth. However, you should not underestimate it, ant treat it carelessly when taming it. You cannot control suddenness, but you can control the fire, even if it tends to be out of control. Consider what tools can be at your disposal in case of emergency. Prepare your extinguisher and fill a large bucket with water, they may happen to be of use. Make sure everybody is aware how to use fire extinguisher and where faucet is situated.

Don't overdo with it or your friends will be in panic during the party.

When the party is over, make sure every single amber have turned black.

Equipment

You should have be prepared for emergency, ready to cope with it so that the consequences would be insignificant. It is important that you have special gloves and outdoor fireplace screen. An outdoor fireplace screen is supposed to be a barrier blocking the fire's way. It can prevent your friends and family members from being exposed to sparks. It is dangerous to neglect such safety materials.

Location and distance

Your outdoor fireplace should be located in a certain distance from your house, trees, plants and anything that can catch fire. The distances are usually mentioned in the documents that you will have to read when authorizing your fireplace in local office.

And don't stand closer to fire than 3 feet.

OUTDOOR fireplace

Outdoor fireplace is supposed to be used outdoor, and even there it can cause accident. However, it is probably worth emphasizing the fact that outdoor fireplaces are only allowed to be used at the backyard and not it house.

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The Spectacular Appeal of Fireplace Surrounds

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There are many ways that you can creatively enhance the appearance of the interior of your home. And, in many cases you can perform this enhancement without spending an arm and a leg. For people who have fireplaces, that is one particular area that can be worked on to improve the overall decor of a room. fireplace surrounds can make the most drab of fireplaces look like something brand-new and out of those home design magazines. You should perhaps consider updating your fireplace surround if you are looking for a cheaper and effective way to make your room look more modern.

Essentially, the surround refers to the area immediately around the fireplace. Many people add a mantel above the fireplace but it is what is done around all sides of it in terms of design that refers to the actual surround. There are many options that exist for people to improve the appearance of their fireplace and the room as a result. Fireplace surrounds make the difference and can be had in a wide range of designs and embellishments. Most commonly, people use hard materials like stone, oak or marble to create the fireplace surround they want. These materials can be laid out in a design that is either modern, or contemporary or even classic old school that gives the fireplace look you want it to have. There is also the option of tiling around the fireplace to create the kind of surround that gives a more clean-lined, contemporary appearance.

For people who are on an even tighter budget, there is still the option of using color to enhance the fireplace surround. By just painting that area around the fireplace, you could end up with an area that looks much more attractive than it did before. Depending on the type of fireplace surrounds you are interested in, you may very well be able to do the installation on your own at home. While it may be a little difficult for you to work with material like marble, you can probably do your own tiling of your fireplace surround and get the look that you want. All you would need to do is get some ideas from magazines and TV programs that show you how to set up fireplace surrounds.

If you do not feel you have the ability to create a design that suits you or do an effective job at making your fireplace look good, then you could also contract the services of a professional to get it done the right way. Either way, it is generally an easy process that can highlight that particular area of the room.

Fireplace surrounds are inexpensive yet effective ways of enhancing the appearance of your fireplace and making it an attractive focal point in your gathering room. If you are on a budget, be sure to look for ways that you can enhance or embellish your fireplace without actually breaking the bank.

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Fireplace Decorating Tips for Easter: Give Your Room's Natural Focal Point an Easter Look

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Sure you decorate your fireplace and mantel for the winter holidays, but don't forget this important focal point in your room as Spring approaches. Here are some nearly-instant ideas for springtime and Easter fireplace decorating:

Daffodils in crystal or glass vases on each end of your mantel bespeak the coming of Spring. Tie a wired chiffon ribbon in a soft spring hue in a bow around each vase for a nice touch.

March a line of fluffy chicks across your mantel. Five or more chicks, whether stuffed toys, porcelain hens, or craft store chickens, make a cute display.

And speaking of stuffed toys, now is a great time to find those old stuffed bunnies and ducks and turn them into mantel ornaments. Add Easter grass, and scatter decorated eggs along the mantel to keep them company.

Tie wired gingham-checked ribbons into bows, and attach them to the edge of your mantel. Let the ends of each bow hang down various lengths from one to three feet. At the end of each ribbon, open a plastic egg, tape the ribbon's end inside the egg, and force the egg shut. This creates a set of eggs dangling at different heights.

Bring out your glass, crystal, white, and pastel candle holders of different heights for your mantel. Select a trio of springtime colors such as lavender, pink and eggshell or aqua, pale green, and soft yellow. Use pastel candles in some of the candle holders. In others, perch decorated Easter eggs (real, plastic, wooden, or glass).

The ideas above are great for your fireplace's mantel, but what's a terrific way to decorate your fireplace itself? Fireplace candelabra are the perfect accessories. And using candles in the shape of decorated Easter eggs in your fireplace candelabra is a super-simple, but visually dramatic way to decorate for the season. (Just don't be too surprised if the Easter Bunny replaces one of the candle-eggs with a chocolate one!)

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Tips For Choosing Wood Fireplace Inserts

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If you have a wood burning fireplace and you want to save energy, you can install a wood fireplace insert. Wood fireplace inserts is energy-efficient because they trap the heat produced by the burning wood inside the fireplace. It is like burning wood behind closed doors. This is very convenient and at the same time does not waste energy and reduces your electric bill. And just like every home owner who pays several bills every month, being able to save money in any way you can and still being able to enjoy comforts inside your home is perfect living.

However, before you buy a wood fireplace insert, you should consider the following qualities for you to be able to choose the best and most appropriate one. Here are some tips.

o Measure all necessary sides and areas of the fireplace. It is important to know the exact measurement of the opening, the depth, and the width of the fireplace so that you will be able to choose a wood fireplace insert with the right size. An insert which is too high, low, small, or big will not be working to its maximum capacity. Moreover, if you bought a wood fireplace insert with slightly larger measurements than your fireplace, it might not be able to fit in and it will cause you trouble trying to fit it in or going back to the store where you bought it from to try to replace it with something smaller.

o Check if the wood fireplace insert has been approved by the Environmental Protection energy or EPA. Wood fireplace inserts which bear the certification of EPA is more energy-efficient and are relatively safer than those without EPA's approval. Also, as a responsible individual who has heard the news about different environmental problems and issues, you should make it a point not to create pollution as much as you can, even in the littlest way possible.

o Know your building or town's fire regulations or codes. This is very important not just for your safety but also for the other residents who are living in the same building or neighbourhood. If you are not sure of what you are supposed to do, you can hire a professional who installs wood fireplace inserts or other related devices. They should know what and what not to do. You should also have your chimney checked if it is still working properly or if it needs repair.

o You should also check the insert's available features. Does it have doors that self-cleans and fans or blowers? Does it have a remote control that lets you adjust fire or heat intensity? These are great features to look for when searching for wood fireplace inserts.

o The insert's appearance and design are also important things to consider. You can buy traditional inserts that are functional but not decorative, or you can buy a highly decorative and functional type. Colors and designs also vary. Just like choosing regular home furnishings, it is better to choose a fireplace insert that matches your home's theme and colors

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Weber 7440 Replacement Charcoal Grates

Weber 7440 Replacement Charcoal Grates Review

It fits and holds the coals up, not sure what more you would want it to do.

Weber 7440 Replacement Charcoal Grates Feature

• For use with 18.5" One-Touch Kettle Grills, Bar-B-Kettles or Jumbo Joe
• 18-1/2 inches in diameter
• Heavy gauge steel

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Top 3 Tips For Installing Wood Burning Fireplace Inserts

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A wood burning fireplace insert may just be the answer to your family's quest for lower utility bills. Inserts are not cheap, but normally will be less expensive than the cost of regular utilities. Plus there is immediate benefit. Do the research and then you can make an informed decision about whether a fireplace insert is right for you and your family.

During the research phase, consider the following:

1. What is the present condition of your fireplace? Is the ventilation adequate? Can you see any cracks? If the fireplace is not sound structurally, now is the time to get it repaired. While you have a contractor repairing the fireplace, have them check around to see if there are any problems with the foundation in general.

2. Is the insert just for show or is it going to be put to good use? If the area you are trying to heat with the insert is not an area that is used anyway even if it were heated, don't bother with the extra expense. Close the door to that area of the home during the cold months. If an insert really would increase your usable space in your house and that space would actually be used, then it's time to really start to search for the best price on an insert.

3. Get a contractor to do the installation if you are not willing or able to learn how to do it yourself. The clearance area for ventilation is extremely important for proper installation. A correctly vented fireplace will not produce a health hazard. Each fireplace has its own unique characteristics which is why each installation of an insert is just a little bit different.

Sometimes, it is just a whole lot less aggravation to have the installation done by someone who does it for a living. Contractors know the different quirks and nuances because they see them every day. They know how to handle each unique installation. It will be cheaper in most cases to have a professional do it right the first time.

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Do Wonders to Your Fireplace with a Wrought Iron Fireplace Screen

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It is irrelevant whether your fireplace area is working or non-working, putting a wrought iron fireplace screen will be a prefect selection to this very important point of the room. One of the objectives to beautify this part of the home is to convert this place into a comfortable environment for relaxation.

A feeling of warmness is generated by putting the wrought iron fireplace screen irrespective of the fact whether you have a roaring fire crackling, glowing candles or even an free space behind it. Opting for this material for your home is ideal because of its long life and grace. The screen goes well with any type of décor.

Numerous designs of fireplace screen can be fabricated from wrought iron. Craftsmen adore producing wrought iron fireplace screens using this material because the design selections are virtually endless.

You can buy a couple of elements for your fireplace screen. Just by replacing the element, you can change the entire touch of the room. You can buy one formal and another informal element and then use them for specific purpose for special occasions.

Rotating fireplace screens are also available. If you are fond of hosting parties, you can rotate your wrought iron fireplace screen according to the event being hosted in your home.

Fireplace screens are available in plenty of design, e.g. in the design of garden gate. In this kind of design, number of panels are set in such a way that the design looks just like a garden gate. The candles gleaming behind decorative elements give elegance to the room. These wrough iron fireplace screens are ideal casual get-togethers.

The other kind of fireplace screen is a monogram wrought iron fireplace screen that conveys formality and fine decorum. This kind of element is usually used in winters. The unusual monogram is made in bronze and looks marvelous in combination with black iron. The crackling fire burning behind it makes the fireplace screen look brilliant. This wrought iron fireplace screen is perfect for formal events.

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Major Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Fireplaces

Today, there could be hardly anybody who is unaware of fireplaces. Although fireplaces were discovered hundreds of years ago, still they are proving to be great utility and elegance items, even in the modern times. One of the major reasons behind this is fireplaces have molded themselves according to time and they never remained rigid. At present, various types of modern fireplaces like gas, electric, wall-hanging, ventless, and portable fireplaces are in use. It doesn't mean that the traditional fireplaces have become extinct, they are also manufactured because they are still demanded by many. Anyway, the contemporary fireplaces or warming equipment can be divided into two major heads according to their area of operation. They are indoor and outdoor fireplaces.

As the name suggests, indoor fireplaces are the warming equipment which are usually installed in the living room, dining room, bedroom, or any other enclosed space within a house or a building. They are, in fact, one of the most demanded types of fireplaces.

The outdoor fireplaces are those which are installed in open spaces, usually in a garden or near the patio. They are meant for outdoor warming purposes and are generally used at the time of dusk. These warming equipment also witness a good demand.

You must have got an idea about the nature of the indoor and outdoor fireplaces by now. So, let's discuss some interesting and major differences between the two:

Outdoor fireplaces are generally less expensive then the indoor ones.
There is no need of a damper in an outdoor fireplace because there is no issue of heat loss while an indoor fireplace usually possesses it.
Outdoor fireplaces are comparatively larger in size and have a voluminous firebox in comparison to their indoor counterparts.
Outdoor fireplaces are usually equipped with chimney caps to prevent spreading of sparks on windy days. This is not necessarily true in the case of indoor warming equipment.
The design choices are much more in case of indoor fireplaces than the outdoor ones. The reason is that not all materials and designs are suitable for outside application, hence comparatively less variety in outdoor warming equipment.
Indoor fireplaces include log burning, gas, and electric fireplaces while the outdoor ones are mostly the log burning type. The outdoor gas fireplaces are also available nowadays, but outdoor electric fireplaces are hard to find, as they are not considered feasible for outdoor use.
While fabricating the outdoor warming equipment, special heed is given to its durability and robustness. This is because they are meant to work outside, thus they should be durable enough to withstand climatic exposure. On the other hand, in case of indoor fireplaces, more focus is on elegance than durability.
The use of precious metals like silver, gold, and platinum is also made sometimes in making indoor fireplaces owing to the expectation from these units to complement the interior decor. On the contrary, the outdoor units are basically utilitarian and no such embellishment is present in them.

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Fireplace Safety - Important Tips

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Having a fireplace is a great feature at home. It keeps you comfortable during the unforgivable weather in the winter. It also provides a romantic ambiance or a great decorative element in the house. However, this can be disastrous if not cared for properly. This is why it is essential to know some safety guidelines in handling and maintaining it to ensure safety.

It is important that you take proper precautions when using your fireplace. Bear in mind that there are a lot of serious cases record brought by fireplaces and its equipment especially with children. There are also a number of fires recorded caused by incidents involving fireplaces. What are the things you need to keep in mind? Are there important maintenance tips you need to follow? How are you going to handle its equipment?

Safety should start during the installation. Some homeowners are installing the fireplace by themselves. However, it is essential that you check your insurance manual and policy, as most companies do not cover fire or damages if the system was not installed by a pro. The fireplace has to be properly installed to make sure that it is safe. If you are installing it by yourself, see to it that you do it right. If there is one single step, you do not understand or that you do not know how to do, then do not do it. Ask a professional to do it for you.

You can follow a few simple things. One is the regular monitoring of the fireplace. It is important that you check all of its section regularly. You need to have a schedule to follow. Inspect all areas especially its protective part and pipes. You have to make sure that it is in good condition.

It is also essential that your chimney be checked at least once a year. It has to be cleaned as well, as required. The cleaning has to be done by the Chimneys Safety Institute of America or the CSIA. Paying attention to the chimneys can prevent a lot of problems like fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. You can also work with Certified Chimney Sweep. You can find one just by using your favorite search engine.

In addition to the having the chimney cleaned regularly, you also have to look out for trees and debris that may get to it. A chimney cap is recommended to prevent problems with debris and living organisms from getting to it.

Aside from the chimney, pay attention to the damper as well. Before you light the chimney, open the damper. Keep it open until you are certain that the ashes in it are already cool.

It is very important that you fuel it right. See to it that you use safe products when using it. Do not use gasoline or any fuel to light the fireplace as this can explode.

Most importantly, keep the combustible products away from it, as this is the common cause of fire. To make sure that you keep your home safe, read and follow the safety manual for fireplaces.

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How Do You Clean Brick on a Fireplace?

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One of the things that first drew you to your home was the fantasy of you and your family sitting down next to a crackling blaze inside those wonderful brick fireplaces. While you have spent many great evenings and weekends sitting comfortably around a roaring fire, the reality is that where there is a fire, there are smoky stains, black soot and piles of old ashes on your brick fireplaces.

Tips on Cleaning Brick fireplaces with Wood Fireboxes:

In many cases, you can clean fireplaces with some simple household items. First, gather together your "toolbox". Most of these items can be gotten affordably at most hardware or home maintenance stores.

You will need:

o A couple of plastic buckets and a good stiff scrub brush
o A vacuum cleaner with disposable bags
o A rubber gloves
o A set of goggles or safety glasses for protecting your eyes
o A disposable drop cloth
o A container of TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate) or a commercial scrubbing powder
o A "green" substitute for TSP is white household vinegar
o A small bottle of chlorine bleach (optional - for mold and mildew removal)
o A heavy duty broom, shovel and metal bucket for handling wood ashes
o Paper towels, sponges and cloth cleaning rags
o A soot removal sponge

First, you need to remove any piles of ashes from inside the firebox or ash pit, if you fireplace has one. Be careful how you trash your ash...always store ashes inside a metal container until you can dispose of them properly. Remember ashes can keep embers hot and combustible for as long as four days!

You can use a wet-and-dry vacuum to clean up any leftover dust or small bits too small to sweep from the pit and firebox. Next you start the cleaning up process. If you have glass fire screens you can use a half-and-half mixture of the white vinegar and water to make a streak-free cleaner.

Now for the smoke - take a bucket of clean water and a sponge and wet down section of facing you will be working with. Work your way from top to bottom. This water saturation is to keep any cleaners and solvents from soaking into the pores of the mortar and brick.

Next mix up a mild solution of TSP or use your scouring powder and scrub brush to go over the face of each brick of the fireplace. You should do only one section at time and rinse as you go along. Be careful of the mortar joints or else you run the risk damaging the masonry or mantels for brick fireplaces and resurfacing fireplaces can be very expensive.

Once you have finished working the mantel, hearth and external walls, you can move into working on the firebox. Here you will find more soot and ash debris. Since it is a carbonized residue, it will literally turn into a quick staining ink if you wet it.

First, you must clean up the soot as much as possible using your broom, shovel and soot removal sponge. Don't wet this sponge! Just use it on drag down the soot from the top of the firebox to the bottom.

Remove the debris with the broom, shovel or shop vacuum. Polish any metalwork and you are done cleaning your brick fireplaces.

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Stone Remains a Popular Material For Modern Fireplaces

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Modern fireplaces not just about heating the house, they are also about interior design. They are still functional and economical, but their aesthetic value has increased so much so that they can often be classified as art pieces. There are far more styles to choose from than there ever were before, and anyone, can find the perfect gas fireplace for any home, be it large or small, urban or rural, and regardless of their particular sense of taste. In the past stone fireplace surrounds were more for protecting the house from the flames and storing ambient heat, even if they were beautifully crafted, but the most contemporary fireplaces can provide heat while also contributing to any interior design schematic. So much so, in fact, that they are often the primary fixtures in a room, and set a certain tone for the interior design schematic altogether.

Despite the availability of other materials, stone is still a popular material to build contemporary fireplaces out of. The procedure for producing one of these modish modern stone fireplaces generally involves four stages: design, construction, delivery and installation.

In designing contemporary fireplaces, the project commences with a basic design concept. Then a simple measured image is drawn up, which then is transformed into a life-size representation that permits a more detailed look at the moldings and the carving details so that more minute dimensions can be determined. After all of this information is ascertained, the details are sent to a stone mill, and the materials are ordered (10-ton blocks are commonly ordered as a starter piece, but each project will require something different). At this point a three dimensional representation of the drawing will be created. Some artists describe this process, which is the most time consuming part of the creation of modern fireplaces, as "finding" the sculpture inside the stone block. The drawings are transferred to the stone to the exact measurements, with specific adjustments made according to needs.

Then the images are shaped, and all the details are eventually carved out of the stone with specialized chisels, hammers and other tools. Then the pieces are shipped and delivered to wherever the fireplace is to be installed.

In the end the fireplace is installed by a stone mason, who will connect the carved piece or pieces directly to the wall with specialized galvanized wall ties. The shaped stone pieces are usually connected together with bronze pins, the gaps filled in with mortar, and finally sealed with grout material. The whole process can take many days to complete, but the result is a magnificent custom modern fireplace with a distinctive style.

Contemporary fireplaces have increased in popularity because they double as functional industrial design-oriented heaters and interior design-oriented décor. They house real living flames that can be fueled by wood, gas, or other fuels. They are great sources of heat and enjoyment, and generally raise the value of the home by at least as much as they cost. They can be viewed either as functional art pieces or artistically-designed appliances, and are the ultimate marriage of the utilitarian and the aesthetic.

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Nail Gun Safety - Four Framing Carpenter Tips

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If you're a framing contractor or a carpenter who works in the construction business, there's a good chance that you know someone who has had a nail gun accident. I would like to share a couple of things that I have learned over the years, using pneumatic air powered nail guns, while framing homes.

1. Safety Glasses - The last few years that I worked as a framing carpenter, building tract houses, we were required to wear safety glasses. Even though I didn't like it, I obeyed the rules and I think that every carpenter should do the same. Make sure that you have safety glasses, whenever you're working with power tools and especially framing nail guns.

2. Every nail gun used for house framing should have a skyhook on it. Sky hooks fastened to the side of the nail gun and can be used to grip on to framing lumber. This is extremely useful, when you're working in high areas, framing roofs or floors.

3. You should never be in a hurry, while you're using power tools, including high-powered nail guns. I was shot in the leg, by another worker who was in a hurry and I even shot myself in the hand one time, because I didn't have the lumber positioned correctly. There are plenty of construction accidents that happen each year, simply because someone was in a hurry. You don't need to be one of them.

4. Don't point or shoot your nail gun at anybody. This was something that happened on the job often as carpenters would take on a Rambo war hero mentality and start shooting at things, including other people. Nail guns are dangerous and you shouldn't forget that it's your responsibility to maintain a safe work environment.

It doesn't take a brain surgeon to realize that some tools used in the construction industry, especially those used for framing houses are dangerous. I hope that these four Carpenter framing tips have been helpful. Pass them on to other that you know who work in the construction industry.

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No Matter What Your Personality, There is a Unique Fireplace That Fits You

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Walking into your home a few centuries ago, you would have encountered a fireplace that was merely functional at best. An old wooden mantel might not have even been finished if you were in an old farm house or out on the range. An inner city fireplace might have been finished mahogany or oak, huge and the center of attention.

Wood and stone served the purpose. There was very little room for variety even though they were beautiful and welcoming. Their purpose was to heat the home, but human nature has always been to make even the most functional of amenities look as good as possible.

Today, you have more of a choice than you've ever had. fireplaces have been developed to the point where they match everyone's personality. From traditional styles to contemporary styles, you really have a variety to choose from when you go looking for the one that best suits you.

Contemporary Feel

Of course, you can have traditional stone or wood fireplaces that really catch the eye and speak of days past. But, you can step up to the 21st century when you look at the Oakland. The mantel and the hearth both have a brass finish. You can also get it finished in nickel if you would like.

The Freemont favors the Oakland, but it is a corner unit. Also in brass or nickel, Freemont fireplaces look great in any room. Plus, the portability of these units makes it easy to take them from room to room. Can you imagine putting your fireplace in any room you want and then moving them around to any other room you want?

Fireplaces on Your Wall

The Milan is considered Wall Art. The fireplace on the wall is an absolutely revolutionary idea that takes you straight to tomorrow. In styles of Copper, Vanilla, Gold and others, you can enjoy the fire on your wall while you entertain guests in your totally contemporary design. Now, the fireplace can match the personality of contemporary.

But, the Milan is but the surface. The Madrid Wall Torch also reigns in tomorrow as it offers an entirely different wall art design. With the solid base and a projection surround, Madrid comes to our world and fits in nicely with backless couches and legless coffee tables. Sense of humor aside, the Madrid is an exciting addition to the fireplace family.

Enjoy a tall Beaumont or Stanford in a classically decorated living room. Enjoy a majestic Tuscany Stone or Zephyr in an imperialistic theme. No matter what your heart says, there is a fireplace that will speak to you.

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Different Types of Fireplaces and the Materials Used in Them

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A fireplace is an opening, made at the base of the chimney, for holding fire. It is an architectural structure created in homes, and has been in use since many years. Nowadays, their popularity has decreased due to the use of central heating and cooling systems in homes. Still, they are a popular option for those who wish to give their homes an elegant look.

A fireplace is the central point in a home. Whether it is in a room or a lounge, it becomes the focal point of attraction in the area. It is very comforting to sit around a fireplace and listen to the sound of the fire and enjoy the heat.

There are two main types of fireplaces. One is the original fireplace which is used for real fires. It can really change the outlook of the room and give it a cozy and elegant feel. Although it is a good option, it requires a lot of maintenance and regular cleaning to keep it looking good. Another alternative is electronic fireplace which is easier to maintain.

There are a variety of materials which can be used for building fireplaces. the most common materials in use are brick or stone; such fireplaces are known as Masonry fireplaces. These types are usually unreinforced and cannot withstand earthquakes. Another type is concrete fireplaces. Although these types are reinforced, they have some internal design flaws which can cause cracks to appear, after some time.

Another type is the manufactured fireplace which has a metal firebox inside a frame. This type of firebox can be fitted inside any frame made of wood or concrete. This makes the installation process much easier, and is also less expensive than other options.

A new innovation in this regard is the bio-ethanol fireplaces. They are fuel less firs and do not require any ventilation. These kinds of fireplaces are very efficient as all the heat is transmitted into the room. These are also very easy to maintain as there is no residue or soot.

There are many ways in which you can design your fireplace so as to catch the attention of those who enter the room. The main part of the fireplace is the hearth, and this is what determines its look. There are many styles and materials that you can choose, depending on the décor of the room. The firebox and opening of the fireplace are also important design considerations.

Nowadays, there are various modern fireplace designs to choose from which can give your home a fresh and new look. Even remote control and portable fireplaces are now available in the market. Moreover, fireplaces can now be fitted anywhere in your room as they are integrated into different objects such as tables, book cases or glass cases. Outdoor fireplaces are also an option and they can enhance the beauty of your garden or backyard. No matter what design you choose, it is important to ensure that it complements the rest of the décor well, while still being the focal point.

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Fireplace Cleaning and Maintenance

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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:

· 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.

· Doors should be open for venting. Avoid fire that burns longer than five hours.

· 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.

· Do not leave the fire unattended, especially when there are small children.

· Use a chimney cap to avoid animal nesting, water damage or debris. This is also to avoid obstructing the chimney.

· 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.

· Use a brick cleaner when cleaning a brick fireplace. Use lemon oil every month or two to clean exterior slate hearths.

· 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.

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In Search of the Best Fireplace Designs

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Having the right fireplace at your home gives that inspiring, comfortable and fresh feel to your living room. And having the right design for your fireplace can spell the difference between a wonderful, well-designed room from an interior design nightmare. So if you are into building a fireplace and having it designed according to your preferences, it will definitely help you to heed these tips on how and where you can find good fireplace designs.

Most people would prefer having fireplaces within their homes. And as a matter of fact, the demand for well-designed fireplaces is high such that you can find an array of different designs and models in the market. So it important to set your design priorities straight when you plan on scouting for fireplace designs. Ask yourself if you want a traditional fireplace, or a fireplace with modern and contemporary designs. And it's a very good idea to finalize the design you want before building your fireplace.

One of the best places to search for good designs is online sites that can provide you with a lot of designs to choose from. Besides updating yourself with the latest trends in fireplace designs, surfing these sites will also give you an idea of how other people designed their fireplaces. Also, do not forget to consult the local fireplace builders within your community or area. You can ask tips from these builders so that you can maximize design and at the same time minimize expenses to arrive at the fireplace of your liking. Home improvement and decorating television shows can also help you with designing ideas.

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Is Cast Iron a Good Material For Outdoor Fireplaces?

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There are some definite disadvantages to cast iron for outdoor fireplaces. Iron is heavy, it rusts, and it will stain just about any surface it touches when it rusts. But when it comes to outdoor fireplaces, these disadvantages may not really be a big problem.

If you buy a fireplace, one of the last things you want is for it to rust through and fall apart. Iron is well know for being very susceptible to rust, especially when exposed to weather and fire. The rust can be stopped or slowed by coating the metal with heat resistant paint, but that usually is not really necessary. When iron is cast, it is usually cast into thick pieces. The surface of the iron will no doubt rust, but it can take a very long time for the rust to make it all the way through the thick iron. Until that happens, you can get many years or decades of enjoyment out of your fireplace.

So maybe the rust is not going to make the fireplace fall apart any time soon, but rust will stain your patio or deck. This may be a problem with a concrete patio but as far as your deck, that is the least of your problems. A deck is really no place for a wood burning fireplace. Since decks are usually made of wood, and wood burning fireplaces burn wood, it is not a good idea to put the fireplace on a wood deck to begin with. When a cast iron fireplace is put on the ground, where they belong, rust stains should not be a problem.

Cast iron is usually quite heavy. This can be a disadvantage if you want a portable fireplace. But if you want to leave it in one spot, being heavy will help it stay there.

Although cast iron may have some disadvantages over other metals for outdoor fireplaces, these disadvantages often do not really matter that much and the low cost and durability of cast iron can make it a good choice for fireplaces.

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Home and Work Fireplace Safety Tips

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Most homes look and feel cozier when they have a fireplace, especially a workable one that the owners use on occasion. But even an attractive fixture of this type can be dangerous if it is not managed correctly or safely. If you have recently purchased a home that has a fireplace, find and read maintenance guidelines to make sure your fireplace continues to be a source of pleasure rather than pain.

When taking possession of your home, ask the previous owner about the condition of the fireplace. Find out whether it was used, and if so, how often. Inquire as to whether there were problems with the fireplace, and if the chimney ever needed or received any type of repairs. It also would be a good idea to ask if there had been any problems with a fire starting from the fireplace or if carbon monoxide levels were checked. Once you have this information, you will have a better idea of what needs to be done.

Get the chimney inspected. Even if the past owners confirmed that the fireplace was in good working order, an annual checkup is advisable to make sure the flue remains operational, and that creosote has not built up to dangerous levels. Besides, small animals like birds, squirrels, and bats can build nests in the chimney at any time, and severe weather can take an unexpected toll, so a yearly inspection is a good idea.

Learn how to start, maintain, and put out fireplace flames. Keep the necessary materials on hand, like kindling wood and a lighter. Do not burn just any kind of materials in the fireplace, as some, like aerosol containers, may explode while others may release toxic substances.

Keep the right equipment on hand. You will want to put up a screen to keep sparks from darting onto the floor or nearby furniture. A poker will let you stir the embers to check for embers. You will need a shovel and a small dustpan to remove ashes, as well as a bin for firewood. Don't forget to keep a fire extinguisher on hand, and know how to use it. Teach family members what to do in case the flame should get out of control. Install a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector in the room to pick up early levels of problem fumes or smoke. Without the necessary items, you could run the risk of letting a fire spread into the room.

Never leave a fireplace flame unattended. Someone should stay in the room or be in and out frequently to monitor its burning. Otherwise, if a problem occurs, it could spread quickly without adequate supervision. Make sure the fire has burned out before leaving the house or going to bed. Don't close the flue until the fire is completely out, or the house could fill with smoke or carbon monoxide.

A fire in your hearth is a beautiful sight, but it is important to learn how to tend it properly. Get the necessary guidelines and equipment before burning logs in your home fireplace.

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Decorating a Fireplace - Style Tips

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Whether you live in an area that actually gets cold when autumn and winter rolls around, December is just somehow synonymous with cozying up in front of a fireplace.

Some people spend hours enjoying the warmth of a fireplace lost in the pages of their favorite piece of fiction. Still others simply gaze into the crackling flames and allow themselves to daydream the time away. If you were to query a realtor as to the benefits of owning a fireplace, they would quickly confirm that a fireplace is typically on a buyer's list of "must haves" in a new home which makes owning a fireplace a good investment for a seller. But, to a child, a fireplace is simply where stockings are hung by the chimney with care.

For decades discerning decorators have looked to fireplaces as focal points to be featured in a space thereby enhancing their overall design plan. Fortunately, fireplaces can be adorned to appeal to just about any decorating style. Here are tips for three decorating styles.

Cottage or Country Style - Clients who are in favor of cottage or country style décor would be charmed with a fireplace that showcased a simple, light colored wood mantel, a rustic bench, and a basket of firewood sprinkled with pinecones. As an added touch, hang decorative pots and kettles in front of the fireplace grate or strategically place a metal urn on top of the mantle.

Traditional Style - These clients want symmetry! A framed print or mirror centered above a dark stained wood mantel that is flanked on either side with similar accessories would make their day. Position a seating of winged-back chairs close by to facilitate conversation.

Contemporary Style - Clients who want contemporary want traditional without the fuss. Contemplate using knotty pine paneling around a deep charcoal-colored slate fireplace. Less is more for these minimalist types.

And for just about any decorating style, a grouping of candles on the mantle in various heights, colors, and textures will further enhance the look you desire. So, you can see that a fireplace is a flexible focal point that can be decorated to suit just about anyone's preferred decorating style.

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