Decorative & Protective Home Decor

The Function of Fireplace Screens

6a011570d9fc1d970b017d3ebc004d970c-800wiThe function of fireplace screens is obvious: The form of the screen functions as a barrier between the child and the fire. Generally speaking, the screen also catches stray, smoldering embers or flaming pieces of wood that often pop out of a fireplace opening not covered with a wire mesh screen. Because fireplace doors also perform the same function, many people erroneously believe that fireplace doors are superior to fireplace screens. This is usually not the case.

Fireplace Screens: Indoor and Outdoor Fireplace Child Safety Precautions

A family ’round a roaring fire is a beautiful thing. The warm, toasty feeling of being enveloped by unconditional love and primordial heat is felt inside and out by every member of the group. However, this winter postcard scene can quickly become a horror story reported by the local evening news if certain precautions are not taken to child-proof the indoor or outdoor fireplace. Luckily, fireplace screens are the simple solution to this otherwise alarming situation. Fortunately, they are also one of the fireplace accessories most accessible to everyone of every budget and design style.

As evidenced by LifeInc.’s report on third degree burns 13-month-old Brandon Christiansen sustained by gas fireplace doors, these types of fireplace child-proofing mechanisms can lend parents a false sense of security. While the doors do contain the fire, their clear glass panels can reach temperatures of over 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

On the other hand, parents can purchase fireplace screens that are more like child-safety gates. These types of fireplace accessories “rope off” the fireplace from the rest of the room. While it is important to note that an accident concerning a child can still happen with a fireplace screen, the difference between them should be considered. Strategically placed, and appropriately styled, fireplace screens define clear boundaries for children that ideally give parents control over the distance between the child and the fireplace.

Decorative Fireplace Screens

Decorative fireplace screens, sometimes referred to as fireplace doors, are usually clear or tinted glass with an ornate metal frame. The most common fireplace door systems for small fireplaces are built-in to the fireplace opening and operate on a track. Larger fireplaces often use a freestanding screen that has hinged sections and has a decorative metal frame. The finishes on the metal frames may be polished brass, copper or traditional matte black. Decorative, solid panel screens provide a higher than average level of protection for blocking ejected embers, and for blocking items from inadvertnetly falling into the fire. Solid screens however do block a substantial amount of heat generated by the fire.

Fire Pits or Outside Fireplaces Near Outdoor Furniture

If you own a fire pit or other type of outdoor fireplace, you will want to child-proof it the same way that you do your indoor fireplace, especially if the fireplaces are near pieces of outdoor furniture. Numerous types of external home fireplaces are constructed with fireplace screens attached to ensure your family’s safety while enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, almost all types of outdoor fireplaces can be fitted with fireplace screens after their initial purchase.

For more information, or to get a new fireplace screen or doors you can search for a local fireplace shop to find the best selections in your area. Many fireplace stores also offer installation services for the built-in designs.