 Protecting Home Means Having A Proper Sized Fireplace ScreenNothing
adds as much character and decorative appeal like a
fireplace. The hearth is an immediate focal point in the
décor and will likely become a gathering spot during social
events. However, the fireplace can also be potentially
dangerous because moisture trapped in the wood escapes as it is burning
and leads to flying embers or sparks. For this reason, it is
highly recommended that you do not use the hearth until you have a fireplace
screen to prevent the flying sparks from potentially starting
a fire in your home.
The
fireplace screen is definitely the most impressive of the hearth
accessories and there are definitely some beautiful screens out there
from which to choose. Stained glass fireplace screens are
some of the most dazzling to look at but unfortunately the heat from a
fire could damage the screen. While style is important, the
most critical factor to consider when buying a screen is its
functionality—will it actually work and prevent sparks from
damaging your flooring and potentially starting a fire?
When
it comes to the functional nature of a fireplace screen, sizing is
everything. Even screens that are specifically designed to
prevent sparks from reaching beyond the hearth will not work unless
they are the right size.
For a
single panel fireplace screen, you want to be sure to measure the
length and height of the hearth opening. The panel should be
1-2 inches longer and taller than the hearth opening to ensure no
sparks will escape. Folding screens, on the other hand, are a
little more complicated.
Three,
Four, and Five panel
fireplace screens do indeed all fold and that is why you want
them to be at least 10-12 inches wider than the hearth
opening. This will allow for enough fold in the screen so
that it does not tip over while still covering the entire hearth
opening. The height should also be 1-3 inches taller than the
actual fireplace opening.
Spark
guards are also available and they are designed to fit snugly against
the fireplace opening and provide the optimum spark guard protection
for your home. For anyone with curious pets or small
children, a spark guard may be the better choice despite its rather
plain appearance when compared to most fire
place screens.
Indeed,
we would all love to have the most ornate and beautiful fireplace screen
to accentuate our hearth area while still protecting against flying
sparks. While style is important, it is far more critical to
make sure that the screen will actually do its job which is why sizing
is so important. By making sure to measure the hearth area
first and to only choose from screens specifically designed to prevent
sparks, you can find the perfect fireplace screen for your
décor, taste, and budget.
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