Fireplace Grate Guide

Do you have a fireplace grate? Many people do not take time to consider this important element of their fireplace. Grates are the metal holding bins that sit inside of the fireplace and they are not only decorative but also very functional.

Grates are used when a building a fire to keep the firewood off of the bottom of the fireplace. This actually serves several purposes. First, it allows airflow and circulation in your fireplace. The grate helps prop your logs up in the air and keep them raised so that air can flow not only above and around the logs but also underneath it. This increased air flow allows your fire to burn more effectively and evenly. It results in more heat being produced by the fire.

Additionally, a grate makes starting a fire much easier. A final but important role of the fire place grate is to help keep burning logs safely inside of the fireplace. Without a grate, a burning log could easily roll out of your fireplace quickly setting your house on fire.

These metal fireplace grates are not only useful; they can be attractive design element in your fireplace as well. They are available in a variety of different metals and finishes. Some of the more popular selections include cast iron, copper, wrought iron, and nickel. You should select the design style and metal selection that will best work with your unique home décor. Be careful when selecting a grate to find one that is constructed of a durable, nonflammable material. Decorative grates made of wood or other flammable materials should never be used.

Many people wonder how to select the right fireplace grate for the needs. While there is no exact formula, there are some general tips that can aid in the selection process. Click here to see some of the best-selling fireplace grates.

Consider your usage of the fireplace. Do you regularly have a fire? What size logs do you typically use? These factors will an important role in determining the best grate for your needs. If you frequently have fires, a sturdy and durable great will be a long lasting choice. A cast iron fireplace grate is the most popular choice because it is very durable. Additionally, you will want to select a deeper grate if you burn larger logs. You should use a large grate if you burn a lot of big fires but keep in mind that a larger grate will use up more wood. Smaller fires can easily be accomplished using a smaller grate.

Here is a breakdown of some of the specialty fireplace grate types you can purchase for specific fireplace issues:

Ember Bed Grates
If you’re not a fan of cleanup, you can purchase a fire place grate that catches the falling embers and collects them underneath. Ember bed fireplace grates feature a mesh wire rack at the bottom that can collect fallen embers for easy cleanup and disposal once the fire has cooled. This also helps prevent fireplace suffocation by keeping the ashes away from the logs so they don’t put the fire out.

Self Feeding Grates
A self feeding fireplace grate is angled so that the logs fall down into the center as they burn. This keeps the fire going with little intervention required on your part.

Expandable Grates
An expandable fireplace grate works well if your fireplace is an odd size. It comes with extensions so you can get the exact length you need to build the perfect fire. These also work well for people who sometimes burn a big fire and other times want a smaller fire because you can vary the size depending on your need.

Non-tapered Grates
If you have a double-sided fireplace, a non-tapered fireplace grate is your best option because it looks the same when viewed from either side. This is purely an aesthetic preference as you could easily use a traditional grate in a see-through fireplace without trouble.

Click here to see the best deals on fireplace grates.

Your fireplace grate is a practical and important element in your fireplace. Select a grate that is not only attractive but practical as well. Once you have selected the perfect grate, using it is a snap. Just place it in the center of your fireplace, put the logs on top, and light a fire as usual. Warm up cold winter nights with a comforting fire using your new grate.

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