Smokey Fireplace Screens

Everything You Need To Know About Fireplace Screens

With the rising popularity of fireplaces in homes is it any wonder that fireplace screens have become a big decorative and focal point within your living space?  Whether you live in Maine or California fireplaces are the thing to have in your home so why not make your fireplace a standout feature in your living space.

A screen on a fireplace that is never lit is simply there for decorative purposes. They are very functional objects. They keep the fire in the fireplace so that sparks or falling logs can’t get out into the room. They also keep children and pets from getting too close to the fire and getting burned.

But what if you have a fireplace that you don’t use because it’s not in a safe condition or you simply don’t ever build fires in it? What purpose does a fireplace screen serve then? A fireplace screen on a fireplace that is never lit is simply there for decorative purposes. There are many options for decorative fireplace screens.

First of all, if the decor of your room is very traditional or formal, it is appropriate to use traditional screens in front of the fireplace just for show. Brass or wrought iron screens will fit in with the room even if the fireplace is never used.

Another choice for a decorative purposes is a stained glass screen. Stained glass fireplace screens come in many styles including Victorian, mission and modern. Some of these screens are functional while others are for decorative purposes only. Even when not using your fireplace, a stained glass screen can add a touch of elegance and beauty to a room.

Painted wood screens are another great option when using your screen for decorating only. They are usually tri-fold and can be painted with any design you desire. These can be purchased already made. They also can be a great do-it-yourself project where you get the chance to really add your personal touch to the décor of your room.

Still another option is a cloth fireplace screen. Pieces of cloth are stretched between three frames, and then hinged together in a tri-fold. This is an inexpensive and creative option.

Finally, another way to go with decorative ones is to place large framed pieces of artwork in front the opening to the fireplace. These can be paintings, prints, or enlarged photographs. In addition to being decoratively placed in front of non-functioning fireplaces can serve another purpose. Some of them can keep drafts out, making your home more energy efficient.

More Than Just A Handsome Accessory

While they can be a beautiful addition to any fireplace, matching the decor of the room, they also serve some very important purposes in association with using the fireplace itself.

They are actually a safety tool, to help prevent many accidents before they happen. The main purpose is to help prevent a house fire from occurring. A traditional fireplace screen consists of a three paneled wrought iron frame, filled with fine steel mesh, that fits neatly in a semi-circle shape around the front of the fireplace. This helps keep the fire contained, and stops hot snapping embers from popping onto carpet or furniture. Besides assisting in the containment of the fire and hot embers, fireplace screens serve other safety purposes, as well.

As well as fire prevention, they can also help prevent burns in children and pets. Many children, especially small children, are often fascinated by just the sight of fire. A fireplace screen can help prevent them from trying to touch the fire, or from getting to close to it. The same concept applies to household pets. Some animals may find the fire enticing, but a screen will prevent your beloved pet from getting to close to the fire and getting burned as a result.

Besides the traditional model, they come in many varieties, styles, and price ranges. There to meet the needs of anyone, whether you desire a traditional, or a hand-crafted glass screen. Always make sure to measure your fireplace before purchasing, no matter which type you want. This will help you to know that you are purchasing one that will be the perfect fit.