Fireplaces and hearths bring a focal point to the home, as they are cozy places to gather around on cool evenings. There are a variety of fireplaces embellishments that can turn them into showpieces, enhancing the value of your property. Fireplace accessories that make a big difference to the way you use your fireplace in terms of utility, safety and d cor.
Here is a look at some of the most preferred fireplace accessories you can use for your fireplace.
Back plates or firebacks
Also called the fireback, back plates are placed at the back of the fireplace and perform the function of protecting the walls from damage. They also reflect the heat back into the room, minimizing heat loss.
Fire starters
Fire starters are useful in getting your fire started. Fatwood is a very useful hearth accessory made of pinewood, which is soaked in flammable stuff making it easy to ignite. You can use two or three of these with your regular logs of wood. Fire starters can also be used to start your barbecue and your wood stove.
Bellows
You often need a pair of bellows to get the fire going strongly, particularly if you have stored the firewood for a while. Displaying your bellows prominently can really add to the d cor of your fireplace.
While you are at it, it is a good idea to get a pair of fireplace gloves if you handle wood so that you can protect your hands.
Log carriers, log holders and coal hods
To attractively store the wood ready for use, log carriers, log holders, log carts and firewood baskets can be a neat accessory that makes your wood accessible for your fireplace. Similarly coal hods help hold coal.
Fireplace Grates
Grates can influence the performance of your fireplace. You would need to ensure that you have the right size, though. Fireplace grates produce better and longer lasting fires, making your fireplace more efficient. In addition to this, grates also protect the floor of your fireplace from intense heat. Lighting your fire is a lot easier when you have a fireplace grate since it allows the air to circulate below.
Fireplace screens
The function of a fireplace screen or door is to keep the sparks and embers from your fireplace from getting into the room. Screens are highly decorative and can turn your fireplace into a work of art with the various themes, motifs, materials and finishes they are made in.
Andirons
Andirons are the horizontal metal bars you see in a fireplace. These hold logs in open hearths. They are made of cast iron traditionally, but you also get steel or aluminum andirons.
Fenders
A Fireplace Fender will add elegance to your fireplace while protecting your pets and little ones from getting close to the fireplace. These are beautifully decorative and available in polished brass or cast iron.
Fireplace toolsets
Tool sets are an invaluable fireplace accessory. These usually include a decorative stand, an ash rake or brush that you can use to clean the firebox, tongs for handling the coal or log, shovels to clear ash an a poker to move or arrange the coals.
Chimney caps, chimney brushes
If you have a chimney, you would certainly need a chimney cap to keep rain and debris from clogging your fireplace. Chimney brushes help keep your chimney clean.
Steamers, cookware, kettles
Steamers, kettle and other cookware can add a beautiful aesthetic element to your hearth. Be it winter or summer, you can use the steamer, kettle and other cookware to cook or boil food.
Other accessories you can consider for your fireplace are fire resistant hearthrugs that keep the embers and sparks from damaging the floor around your fireplace.
About The Author: Jonathan Goodman is the owner of Market Merchants an online retailer specializing in home and garden products. My passion for bbq grilling and fireplaces is the core focus of Market Merchants. I am a member of the Hearth Patio Barbeque Association (HPBA), the National BBQ group (NBBQ), and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). We sell these products because we love them and are passionate about consumer living needs. So whether its furniture and decor, home improvement, kitchen and dining, or outdoor living Market Merchants brings a dedicated commitment to the customer and a passion for high quality products. Visit the Market Merchants website: http://marketmerchants.com
