As you know, the days are getting shorter and the nights are
getting cooler. Summer is gone and a cozy fire will be the
perfect way to end your day. Do you have your hearth
in order? Don't worry if it isn't because you will
find all the hearth accessories online that will
make your hearth
the focal point of your room. For real wood fires,
a
fireplace
screen is certainly the first hearth product that you should
buy. Fireplace screens are available in many finishes from
black wrought iron fireplace screens to use with rustic decors to
contemporary
fireplace screens in polished iron or chrome.
Once you decide on a finish, it is important to find a screen that will
fit your fireplace opening. Remember, the purpose of a
functioning fireplace screen is to help prevent flying sparks from
making it into your living space. Your fireplace screen should overlap
your fireplace opening by 1-3 inches for adequate
spark
protection. You will need to add 10 inches to the
width of your fireplace opening to get the minimum width your folding
fireplace screen should be. So if your fireplace opening is
40" wide, you will need a screen that is at least 50" wide to allow for
enough fold in the screen so that it will not tip over. Once you have
choosen your fireplace screen, the next fireplace accessory to invest
in is a good set of
fireplace
tools.
A well constructed
fireplace
tool set is sure to help just about everyone tend their fire
with ease. Most will come with a stand, poker,
shovel, and a broom for easy clean-up.
You will also be able to buy fireplace tool sets that include tongs for
lifting or moving wood. The tongs are usually included in 5 piece
fireplace tool sets. Many
wood
baskets and log holders are available to coordinate with your
screen and tools for a well thought out look.