Anatomy of a Fireplace - Findlay Door and Hearth

Findlay Door and Hearth - Anatomy of a Fireplace

Understanding all the parts and pieces of your fireplace is helpful when you are shopping for a new or replacement gas fireplace or gas insert. Findlay Door & Hearth has highlighted most of the common features of a typical fireplace so you can understand all the components. To get further details about a fireplaces and accessories, stop in to our showroom and our experts will help you find the best solution from our wide selection of fireplaces.

Screen

A fireplace screen serves several purposes: it prevents embers and sparks from escaping the firebox; it also prevents objects from accidentally falling into the fireplace; and it is added securtiy, protecting individuals from serious burns.

Gas Line Access

A licensed plumber should handle the installation, relocation, or repair of gas lines for a fireplace. Depending on the fireplace's location, a gas line can be routed through the wall or floor from the service point. Once the fireplace fittings are sealed to the gas line, your installer should test it to confirm there are no leaks.

Outside Air Cover Plate

Because fireplaces need oxygen from outside to fuel the fire, outside air kits are installed for both wood-burning and gas fireplaces to enhance their performance.

Firebox

The firebox, consisting of three surrounding walls, a flat bottom, and an open front, is the space where fires are ignited and burn. While fireboxes are constructed from non-combustible materials like masonry or prefabricated metals, they still require annual inspections to make sure there are no cracks or rust in the firebox.

Grate

A fireplace grate lifts gas or wood logs off the floor of the firebox. Having space between the logs and the floor encourages airflow in the fireplace while also shielding the firebox floor from extreme heat. Most grates are built with curved ends to prevent logs from rolling out of the fireplace.

Gas Line Knockout

The gas line knockout access is the recessed area in the firebox that enables the installation of gas logs and a gas insert. Without this knockout, installing gas logs or a gas insert is not possible.

Damper Control

The damper is a crucial part of a fireplace. It is a small metal flap that separates the firebox from the flue, allowing air and smoke to escape when the fire is lit. By adjusting the damper, you can control the amount of airflow into the firebox, which ultimately affects the size of the flames. When you're not using your fireplace, you should always close the damper.

Surround

A fireplace surround includes three components: the sides, the top and the base. The top is known as the mantel and the base is known as the hearth. You can transform the look of your fireplace and turn it into a focal point but updating the fireplace surround.

Lintel and Ledge Brackets

The lintel is the horizontal beam at the top of the fireplace that supports the chimney's weight. The ledge brackets are used to secure the gas fireplace insert doors to a masonry fireplace.