Fireplace grates are designed with a couple different purposes in mind. First purpose is to provide functionality to your fireplace and help the actual fire to burn consistently and for a long time. The second purpose is to make your fireplace design look nice. Having a nice grate can make a big difference in how your fireplace looks and how it is perceived by others. If you are considering to buy a new great then you may want to continue reading so you can and figure out which type is best for your needs. Since the first purpose of these is functionality then you need to understand why this portion is important. In order for a fire to burn properly it needs to have air flow and oxygen that helped to fuel the fire. By placing your wood inside of a fire grate this lifts the wood up off the [...] Read more »
The Fireplace Mantel Adds Personality
Fireplace mantels have a long history dating back to medieval times. It was originally created as a hood that stood out over a grate. This was then used to catch the smoke. In recent times the fireplace mantels have changed a great deal. They are no longer so massive in size and they now have a more functional purpose. Today fireplace mantels are available in all shapes, sizes, and materials as well as designs. Aside from its functional use the mantel also serves as a decorative element in a room. Today the homeowner can be very creative with the mantel by adding height, adding shelves, or adding decorative pieces to make it stand out. Most mantels are built from wood, marble, or various types of stone. Those built from stone are generally used for larger fireplaces. The homeowner can generally select from river rock, concrete, granite, or limestone. The wood [...] Read more »