Do you have a fireplace in your home? If so, are you getting the most out of it? Many people don’t realize that there are many ways to improve their fireplaces. This blog post will discuss some creative ways that you can improve it!
Pick The Right Tiles
With a little research, you can make this home appliance make gorgeous. Lots of homeowners are going for the tiled fireplace surrounds as it makes the area look visually impressive and inviting. Selecting the right tiles for your fireplace is not a difficult task, but it does take some thought.
First, consider the size of your fireplace. Tiles come in all shapes and sizes, from large panels to small mosaics or two-inch squares. Then, decide whether you want to cover the entire fireplace with tiles or just part of it.
Next, consider what type of tile is best for your fireplace. Look through different tile catalogs and websites to find the right size and material that will make your fireplace look its best. Ceramics and porcelain are classic choices for fireplaces, but you can also find tiles made of stone, glass, and even metal.
Get A Mantel
A mantel is a sure way to add a touch of elegance to any fireplace. These come in many styles and can fit virtually any aesthetic or budget. Installing a mantel is easy, and they provide the perfect accent to your fireplace.
When getting a mantel, measure the space where you plan on installing it to make sure it will fit correctly. The material also matters as different ones have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to fireplaces. Wood mantels, for example, are usually preferred for their traditional look and warmth of color, while stone and brick mantles tend to be more durable but less visually pleasing than wood ones.
Additionally, you may want to consider getting a decorative screen or guard for the mantel to protect it from sparks and heat. This way, you can enjoy your mantel without any worry about getting damaged or scorched.
Decorate The Surroundings
You should think about the entire area surrounding the fireplace when doing decorations. Here are some tips for improving this area:
Choose decor items that draw attention to the fireplace and make it the focal point of the room.
Hang curtains or window treatments with colors that complement the decor of your home.
Add a mantel to the fireplace and decorate it with artwork, family photos, or other decor items.
Place furniture in an arrangement that creates balance and draws attention to the fireplace.
You could also add some plants to the area for a bit of extra color and texture or use wall art or decor pieces to break up the monotony of the walls. Another idea is to create symmetry by decorating both sides of the fireplace in a similar manner.
Match It With The Rest Of The Room
Blend your fireplace in with the rest of the room by matching it with existing furniture, wall colors, and materials. One way to do this is to pick a fireplace that complements the color and design of your living space. If you have lots of wood in your home, go for a wooden fireplace mantel or surround for an attractive matching look. You can also use textured materials, like matching stone or brick accents around the fireplace, to make it blend in with the rest of the room.
Install A Glass Door
A glass door in front of the fireplace has both practical and aesthetic benefits. Installing one can improve both the safety and efficiency of your hearth. It also adds an attractive finishing touch to your room by allowing you to see the fire but keeping ashes and sparks contained.
It’s important that you measure carefully before installing a glass door, so make sure to have all necessary measurements on hand. You’ll also need to decide on the style of glass door you want, from a standard rectangular shape to a more ornate design.
Reverse Ceiling Fan Circulation
If you reverse the circulation of your ceiling fan in the winter months, you can help improve the efficiency of your fireplace. The process is quite simple and all you need to do is switch a couple of settings on the fan and you’re all set!
When reversing the ceiling fan circulation, make sure to set it to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This will create an upwards draft that will help draw the air from around the fireplace. This movement of air will help to push warm air down into the living space and reduce heat loss up through the chimney.
Keep It Clean
In order to ensure functionality and prepare your home for winter, you need to thoroughly clean your fireplace and keep it that way throughout the season. This ensures that it will function properly and safely, so be sure to make keeping your fireplace clean a priority.
Begin by removing any ash or debris that has accumulated inside the firebox. It is important to use a vacuum cleaner when you do this, as ash can contain tiny particles which can become airborne if they are swept up with a broom. Once all the debris has been removed, give the entire hearth area a wipe-down with warm water and soap to get rid of any deposits from last season.
Burn Seasoned Firewood
You should only use seasoned firewood in your fireplace in order to improve its performance. Unseasoned wood is filled with water and burning it can create more smoke, soot, and creosote deposits, reduce efficiency, and even damage your chimney. Seasoned pieces have a moisture content of 18% or less which helps ensure that burning them produces significantly fewer pollutants and results in greater heat output.
The most common way to prepare the wood is by air drying it for 6-12 months before burning it. You can tell when the wood is dry enough when it is light in weight, has small splits or cracks on the end grain of its logs, and makes a hollow sound when two pieces are struck together.
The area around the fireplace is the best spot in the home when winter comes so decorate it with tiles and get a mantel. Make sure to also improve the surroundings and match them with the rest of the room. Make sure to install a glass door to reverse the ceiling fan circulation so it functions better. You should also keep the fireplace clean at all times and only burn seasoned firewood in it!