Apple cider vinegar and water, when mixed, make an effective brick chimney cleaner.
Brick masonry is generally considered traditional as it has been around for hundreds of years and is quite durable. That is why seeing a brick fireplace is quite common, but there is more than one style. In fact, fireplaces can differ when it comes to brick pattern, color, age, and placement.
There are several ways to lay the bricks in the construction of a fireplace. They can be arranged in the form of a pyramid, with a wider base that narrows at the top. The bricks can be neatly laid on top of each other in a neat row, or they can be staggered. Also, the bricks can extend to the top of the room or they can end just above the firebox.
Brick fireplaces are praised for their durability.
Many people might think that red is the typical color for a brick fireplace, but the truth is that there are other color options available. The color of the brick depends on the clay from which it was made. Colors usually range from brown or pink to beige or grey. Also, some people choose to paint their brick fireplace a different color than the natural shade of the brick. Some homeowners prefer brick masonry to blend in with the rest of the room, while others prefer the contrast of natural brick.
Another variation available for the brick fireplace is the age. Some newer homes come with a fireplace that looks new because it is, while older homes have one that has an antique look to match. Sometimes new homeowners have more traditional decor, which may call for an older brick fireplace. They can achieve the look by hitting the bricks with metal tools to cause chips and gouges, and by adding lime to the surface. On the other hand, making old bricks look like new is usually a matter of scrubbing the fireplace with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to remove dirt.
An outdoor fireplace is generally similar in appearance to a typical indoor fireplace and includes many options. Many homes do not come equipped with this type of masonry, so some homeowners choose to build their own. It can add value and charm to a home. Outdoor wood burning fireplaces need a chimney, but charcoal ones don’t.
One of the main reasons to have a brick fireplace is its durability. This type of masonry is typically low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning. Even as it ages and wears down, this type of fireplace usually still exudes charm. For these reasons, as well as the variations available, brick fireplaces have been popular for hundreds of years.
