Discover the History of Fire and Fireplaces

Fireplaces are structures which are crafted from metal, brick or stone and they contain fires. They are utilized in order to heat rooms and add ambiance. Today, we'd like to share information about the history of fire and fireplaces...

Fireplaces Were Multi-functional

In the olden days, fireplaces were definitely important parts of homes. They were used for an array of vital tasks, including the heating of water and cooking. They were also used in order to wash clothes.

The first fireplaces were fire pits which were often constructed within the soil or within caves. Sometimes, they were situated in the centres of huts or other dwellings. Prehistoric fire pits have been found on all of the five continents which had habitation during that time period. Unfortunately, these primitive fire pits tended to produce toxins and smoke which was irritating.

Later on, fire pits evolved into hearths which were raised. They were constructed within buildings. However, ventilation systems were not good. In general, rooms with fire pits were ventilated via windows that were opened in order to let in fresh air or via holes within roofs. For example, a medieval hall would typically have a hearth in the centre, where an open fire would burn and smoke would travel towards a roof vent.

During the Middle Ages, louvers came into being and they made it possible to close vents when the weather was poor. As well, during the Middle Ages, smoke canopies were made which prevented smoke from travelling through rooms. Smoke canopies allowed smoke to ventilate outwards via walls or roofs. They were built against walls made of stone, rather than being placed in the centres of rooms. These canopies made it possible for smaller rooms to be heated.

As time passed, fireplace technology improved. In the 12th century, chimneys were invented and they helped with fume issues by passing smoke to the outside. As well, they made it possible to place drafts into fireplaces and to place an array of fireplaces in various rooms of structures. Chimneys were costly, so it took a while before the common people were able to afford them. At first, they were only for the affluent.

Modern Fireplaces Are Technologically-advanced

Today, fireplaces are decidedly high-tech. Ventilation is assured when a good system is chosen and professionally-installed. Many people shop for fireplaces online. There are authentic fireplaces, as well as electric fireplaces which look just like the real thing, but don't actually burn wood.

Now that you know more about fireplaces, why not shop for one via the Web today?