What are Fireplace Accessories

What are fireplace accessories? Fireplace accessories are anything and everything used while using the fireplace. Basically they are the tools or items used along with the fireplace. Some of these accessories include log box, fireplace screens or glass doors, fire-backs, fireplace mantel or tending tools such as pokers and tongs.

The log box is positively the most important accessory. Log boxes are also referred to as fireplace grates, fireguards, andirons, pellet baskets and fire dogs. All of these serve the same purpose, to help keep the burning logs from rolling away and in a nice stack. They are often made of wrought iron, a heavy duty material, which means they will last a life time. This accessory keeps the fireplace running more efficiently and safely.

Another accessories aimed at safety is the fireplace screen. A fireplace found in a home with children most certainly needs a fireplace screen. A fireplace screen does exactly what its name implies, it screens the fireplace. Similar to the fireplace screen are the glass doors. These doors are used much like the screen. Not only are the used to keep children and pets away from the harmful fireplace, they are also helpful in keeping the area around the fireplace clean. One or both of these accessories are imperative to the fireplace used by a family with children or pets.

Fire-backs are probably not widely viewed as a fireplace accessory, but since they are not required on a fireplace, they are considered a fireplace accessory. They are made of heavy metal and are sometimes used to capture and reradiate heat. Fire-backs are commonly used to protect the back of the fireplace but may also be used for decoration.

The fireplace mantel is without a doubt the most common fireplace accessory. It is used for decoration and organization. The mantel is a large shelf just above the fireplace. It is most often made of wood that is either stained or painted. The mantel is a great way to utilize the space above the fireplace and a great way to display décor.

Fireplace tools are another very common fireplace accessory. These tools include the poker, tongs, brush and shovel. A tool stand may be used to store and display the tools. These tools are used to tend the fire, which means to keep the fire going. A gas fireplace may also have these tools as an accessory, but obviously used as decoration only.