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Fireplace Terminology? - Kylon Powell

Writer Caleb Butler

What is the area in front of a fireplace called?

Hearth. There’s a brick or tile area in front of the firebox or inner hearth that’s designed to reduce the risk of fire. The Front of the Fireplace. The part of the fireplace that faces the firebox and is visible from the room is known as the fireplace face or surround.

What is it called around the fireplace?

As a hood over a fire grate to catch the smoke in medieval times, the fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, or chimneypiece, was born. Since its inception, the term has broadened to include the decorative framework around the fireplace and even the ceiling.

What is the trim around a fireplace called?

The top of the fireplace surround or the top of the open fireplace’s face is where the mantel goes. In addition to a shelf for decorations and other items, the mantel can help keep smoke from the fire out of the room.

What’s the base of a fireplace called?

Plinth. The plinth is the lowest part of the leg on a fireplace, or what is more commonly referred to as the “foot.” The base of the fireplace is often referred to as the decorative transition piece between the leg and the hearth.

What is a fireplace lintel?

The chimney is supported by a horizontal beam known as the fireplace lintel or lintel bar. It usually extends into the wall by 4 inches on each side.

What are the sides of a fireplace called?

What is the door in the bottom of my fireplace?

You can store old ashes in an ash pit in your fireplace. You can easily sweep in ashes and embers and then seal them in with a small door thanks to its convenient location. Your fireplace’s ash pit should be able to withstand the heat while still being accessible to you, the homeowner.

What does a damper do in a fireplace?

When you’re not using the fireplace, a chimney damper prevents heated or cooled house air from escaping through the flue. Open the damper when lighting a fire to ensure adequate airflow and to release any resulting smoke.